Description

This *Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad* is the ultimate blend of comfort and freshness. Soft cheese tortellini, crunchy cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, briny olives, and creamy mozzarella balls are tossed in a vibrant Italian vinaigrette for a dish that’s colorful, hearty, and full of garden flavor. Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner idea, quick lunch prep, healthy snack, or a reliable potluck favorite, this easy recipe is here to deliver. Perfect for warm weather days or meal prepping for the week—this salad is your new go-to for satisfying, fresh food ideas.

Ingredients

1 package (9–12 oz) cheese tortellini, refrigerated or frozen

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, chopped

¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced

⅓ cup Kalamata olives, sliced

1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)

¾ cup Italian dressing or herbed vinaigrette

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente.

2. Drain and rinse the tortellini under cold water to cool completely and stop the cooking.

3. While tortellini cools, prep the vegetables: halve tomatoes, chop cucumber, slice onion, and olives.

4. In a large bowl, combine tortellini, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, olives, and mozzarella.

5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is coated evenly.

6. Add Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if using. Toss again.

7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill and let flavors meld.

8. Before serving, toss again and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Rinse the tortellini in cold water after boiling to stop the cooking and prevent sticking.

Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor and texture.

Add grilled chicken or chickpeas to make this a more filling main dish.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Pasta Salad
Method: Boiling
Cuisine: American / Italian-inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 320
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 560mg
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 11g
Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: pasta salad, quick lunch, summer recipe, easy dinner, potluck idea, vegetarian, garden recipe