Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant Mediterranean flavors and comes together in a flash, this Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad is an absolute must-try. Packed with tender cheese tortellini, crisp cucumbers, tangy feta, and a zesty homemade Greek dressing, every bite feels like a sun-soaked Greek island escape. It’s refreshingly light yet satisfyingly hearty, making it the perfect option for a picnic, potluck, or a quick weeknight dinner. Once you make this Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad, it will quickly become your go-to dish for impressively simple and delicious Mediterranean-inspired meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad lies in its thoughtful layering of fresh and flavorful ingredients. Each ingredient is chosen not just for taste but also for adding interesting textures and a wonderful pop of color that brings the salad to life.

• 12 ounces cheese tortellini: The tender, cheesy pasta is the star that carries all the Mediterranean goodness.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: These little bursts of sweetness and acidity brighten up the salad perfectly.
• 1 cucumber, diced: Adds a crisp, refreshing contrast that’s crucial for balance.
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced: Provides just the right amount of sharpness to lift the flavors.
• 1/2 cup sliced black olives: Brings that classic briny bite that pairs so well with feta.
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese: Creamy and salty, feta gives the salad its authentic Greek touch.
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: Offers a chewy, sweet depth of flavor that’s pure magic.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Freshness and a burst of green color to finish the salad.
• Greek Dressing: Made with olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper – this simple dressing perfectly ties everything together.

How to Make Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Start by cooking the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions until they’re perfectly al dente – tender but still with a little bite. Drain them well and rinse briefly in cool water to stop the cooking process and cool them off quickly. This step ensures the tortellini won’t get mushy when mixed with the other fresh ingredients.

Step 2: Combine the Fresh Veggies and Cheese

In a large bowl, toss together your halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, sliced black olives, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese. This mix brings a refreshing crunch and rich, savory notes that make the salad exciting from the very first forkful.

Step 3: Whisk Up the Greek Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is emulsified. This dressing is the magic sauce that adds bright, tangy, and herbaceous flavors reminiscent of a traditional Greek salad but with a lovely twist that complements the tortellini beautifully.

Step 4: Toss Everything Together

Pour the dressing over the tortellini and vegetable mixture, then gently toss until every bit is evenly coated. The dressing clings to the cheese-filled pasta and veggies, making each bite flavorful and cohesive. Finish by sprinkling the fresh parsley on top for a lovely touch of color and freshness.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Refrigerate the salad for about 15 to 20 minutes before serving. This brief chill allows all the ingredients to mingle and the flavors to deepen, resulting in a richer, more satisfying taste experience with every bite of your Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad.

How to Serve Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra crumbled feta or a few whole olives on top right before serving for an eye-catching presentation. You can also add a few fresh basil leaves or a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil to elevate the look and aroma.

Side Dishes

This pasta salad pairs perfectly with grilled chicken or fish, making it an excellent accompaniment to any Mediterranean-themed meal. You could also serve it alongside warm pita bread or a platter of roasted vegetables for a complete, colorful spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving this Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad in individual mason jars for picnics or parties—it looks beautiful layered and makes for easy, portable portions. Alternatively, spoon it into crisp lettuce cups for a fun, handheld appetizer that’s both fresh and satisfying.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for next-day lunches or quick snacks.

Freezing

This salad doesn’t freeze well due to the fresh vegetables and cheese, which can become watery or grainy after thawing. It’s best to prepare it fresh or only freeze the cooked tortellini separately if you want to save time later.

Reheating

This pasta salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t recommended. If you prefer it slightly warmer, allow it to sit out for a few minutes after removing it from the fridge before serving.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought Greek dressing instead of making my own?

Absolutely! While the homemade dressing brings a fresh, vibrant punch, a good-quality store-bought Greek dressing can save time and still complement the salad nicely.

What kind of tortellini works best in this Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad?

Cheese-filled tortellini is ideal because its creamy texture blends wonderfully with the tangy Greek flavors, but you could also try spinach or mushroom-filled varieties for a different twist.

Is this salad suitable for meal prepping?

Yes! It’s a great make-ahead dish that holds up well in the fridge, just keep dressing separate until about 15 minutes before eating to prevent sogginess, if you prefer.

Can I add protein to make this a fuller meal?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can be tossed in to boost the protein content and turn this salad into a hearty entrée.

What can I substitute if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?

If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes on hand, roasted red peppers or finely chopped dried cherries can provide a similar sweet and tangy flavor to keep the salad exciting.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about this Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad that keeps me coming back for more—its effortless blend of textures, bright flavors, and sheer versatility make it a kitchen staple. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply want to treat yourself, this salad promises fresh, satisfying bites every time. I encourage you to try this recipe soon and watch it become a fast favorite in your recipe rotation.

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