Italian Tortellini & Veggie Pasta Salad
Why Make This Recipe
This Italian Tortellini & Veggie Pasta Salad is perfect for any occasion. It is colorful, refreshing, and packed with flavor. Whether it’s a picnic, BBQ, or a simple family dinner, this salad is sure to impress. It combines the chewiness of tortellini with crisp vegetables, making it a delightful meal or side dish. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be prepared in advance!
How to Make Italian Tortellini & Veggie Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 12 oz cheese tortellini, cooked and cooled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 small zucchini, quartered and sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup Italian vinaigrette
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Optional: grated Parmesan for topping
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled tortellini, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, red onion, and zucchini.
- Add the chopped basil leaves, Italian vinaigrette, salt, and black pepper.
- Toss gently to combine all the ingredients well.
- If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
- Chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
How to Serve Italian Tortellini & Veggie Pasta Salad
Serve this delicious salad cold or at room temperature. It makes a fantastic main dish or a hearty side. You can also pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. Garnish with extra basil or cheese for added flavor.
How to Store Italian Tortellini & Veggie Pasta Salad
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 days. If the salad becomes dry after a day, you can add a little more vinaigrette before serving.
Tips to Make Italian Tortellini & Veggie Pasta Salad
- Make sure the tortellini is completely cooled before adding it to the salad to avoid wilting the vegetables.
- Feel free to swap veggies based on your preference or what you have on hand.
- If you like a bit of a kick, add some sliced black olives or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Variation
You can easily customize this salad by adding protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. You can also use different types of cheese tortellini, such as spinach or mushroom, to change the flavor profile.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this salad a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you are ready to serve.
Can I use a different dressing?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use a ranch or a balsamic dressing instead of Italian vinaigrette.
What vegetables can I add?
You can add or substitute any vegetables you like, such as cucumbers, carrots, or bell peppers for extra crunch and flavor.
Italian Tortellini & Veggie Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz cheese tortellini, cooked and cooled Make sure tortellini is completely cooled to avoid wilting the vegetables.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 small zucchini, quartered and sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped Can garnish with extra basil.
Dressing and Seasoning
- 1/2 cup Italian vinaigrette Alternatively, ranch or balsamic dressing can be used.
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- optional grated Parmesan for topping Sprinkle before serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled tortellini, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, red onion, and zucchini.
- Add the chopped basil leaves, Italian vinaigrette, salt, and black pepper.
- Toss gently to combine all the ingredients well.
- If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
- Chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
