Mediterranean Tortellini Salad with Artichokes & Olives Recipe

If you’re looking for a vibrant and satisfying dish that bursts with the flavors of the Mediterranean, then you absolutely need to try this Mediterranean Tortellini Salad with Artichokes & Olives. It’s a harmonious blend of tender cheese tortellini, briny Kalamata olives, tangy marinated artichokes, and fresh, crisp veggies all brought together by a zesty homemade dressing. This salad delivers a perfect balance of textures and tastes, making it an ideal choice for warm-weather lunches, potlucks, or a light yet fulfilling dinner. I promise you’ll fall in love with how each bite captures the sun-kissed essence of Mediterranean cuisine.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering fresh, quality ingredients is key to making this Mediterranean Tortellini Salad with Artichokes & Olives truly shine. Each item plays a vital role—from the creamy cheese tortellini providing a hearty base to the vibrant veggies and tangy olives that add pops of flavor and color.

• Cheese tortellini (12 oz): The tender, stuffed pasta is delicious and provides a satisfying chew that anchors the salad beautifully.
• Cherry tomatoes (1 cup, halved): These bring a juicy sweetness and bright hue to contrast the savory elements.
• Marinated artichoke hearts (¾ cup, drained and chopped): Offering a tangy, slightly floral note that elevates the salad’s Mediterranean vibe.
• Kalamata olives (½ cup, sliced): Their briny, fruity flavor adds depth and complexity.
• Cucumber (½ cup, diced): Adds crunch and refreshing coolness to every bite.
• Red onion (¼ cup, thinly sliced): For a subtle sharpness and beautiful color.
• Feta cheese (½ cup, crumbled): Salty and creamy, it melts seamlessly into the salad.
• Fresh basil or parsley (¼ cup, chopped): A fresh herbal note that lightens up the overall flavor.
• Extra virgin olive oil (¼ cup): The foundation for the dressing, providing richness and the unmistakable Mediterranean taste.
• Lemon juice or red wine vinegar (2 tbsp): Lends brightness and tang to balance the richness of the cheese and oil.
• Dijon mustard (1 tsp): Adds a gentle kick and helps emulsify the dressing.
• Garlic clove (1, minced): For a punch of aromatic flavor.
• Dried oregano (½ tsp): A classic Mediterranean herb that ties the dressing together.
• Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors.

How to Make Mediterranean Tortellini Salad with Artichokes & Olives

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Gently add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Be sure not to overcook—it’s important to maintain a tender, slightly firm texture to keep the salad from becoming mushy. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and rinse briefly under cool water to stop the cooking process and help the tortellini cool down for the salad.

Step 2: Prepare the Mediterranean Dressing

While the tortellini cooks, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice (or red wine vinegar), Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This dressing is the magic ingredient that ties the entire salad together, balancing richness with acidity and a hint of herbaceous warmth.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled tortellini with the halved cherry tomatoes, chopped marinated artichoke hearts, sliced Kalamata olives, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. Toss these ingredients gently but thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly.

Step 4: Dress and Toss the Salad

Pour the vibrant Mediterranean dressing over the salad. Using gentle hands or salad tongs, toss everything carefully until all the components are beautifully coated in the dressing, ensuring every bite will be bursting with those tangy, savory flavors.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

For the freshest taste, refrigerate the salad for about 20 to 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows all the flavors to marry and develop deeper complexity. When ready, sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley over the top to finish. Serve this salad chilled or at room temperature for a truly delightful Mediterranean experience.

How to Serve Mediterranean Tortellini Salad with Artichokes & Olives

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs such as basil or parsley not only adds a beautiful burst of color but also uplifts the flavor with fresh herbal notes. Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds can add a wonderful crunch and complementary nutty dimension to the salad.

Side Dishes

This Mediterranean Tortellini Salad with Artichokes & Olives pairs splendidly with grilled chicken or fish if you want a more substantial meal. Alternatively, serve it alongside warm pita bread or a platter of mezze for a festive Mediterranean spread that impresses every time.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching presentation, serve the salad in a large shallow bowl with vibrant edible flowers scattered on top, or plate individual servings in mini jars layered with extra herbs and a lemon wedge. The colors and textures make it equally as beautiful as it is flavorful, perfect for entertaining or casual family dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover Mediterranean Tortellini Salad with Artichokes & Olives in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day. Just give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Freezing

Due to the fresh vegetables and cheese, freezing this salad is not recommended as it can affect the texture and flavor negatively. It’s best enjoyed fresh or kept in the fridge for a few days.

Reheating

This salad is intended to be served cold or at room temperature. If you prefer it slightly warm, you can remove it from the fridge about 15 minutes before serving to allow it to come to room temperature naturally. Avoid microwaving, as this can melt the cheese and soften the vegetables undesirably.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini for this salad?

Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works wonderfully and cooks quickly, just be sure to follow the package instructions and allow it to cool properly before mixing with the other ingredients.

Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this Mediterranean Tortellini Salad with Artichokes & Olives is perfect for vegetarians since it contains no meat and uses cheese tortellini and feta cheese for protein.

Can I make the salad vegan?

To make it vegan, swap the cheese tortellini for a plant-based variety and replace feta with a vegan-friendly cheese or omit it entirely. The dressing is naturally vegan, so it remains flavorful.

What substitutes can I make for Kalamata olives?

If you’re not a fan of Kalamata olives, you can use green olives or Castelvetrano olives for a milder flavor, but the traditional briny punch might be slightly different.

How long should I let the salad chill before serving?

Allowing the salad to chill for around 20 to 30 minutes is ideal as it gives enough time for the dressing to meld with the ingredients, creating a harmonious burst of Mediterranean flavors.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Mediterranean Tortellini Salad with Artichokes & Olives enough for anyone craving a colorful, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that feels like a mini getaway to the Mediterranean after every bite. It’s perfect for sharing with friends or savoring on your own, and once you try it, I bet it’ll become a beloved staple in your recipe collection. So go ahead, whip it up, and let the sunshine flavors brighten your day!

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