When it comes to pasta salads, few options are as versatile and delicious as a well-crafted tortellini salad. The stuffed pasta rings can be paired with a wide range of ingredients to create a dish that’s both satisfying and flavorful. From classic Italian-inspired combinations to bold and spicy twists, there’s a tortellini salad out there for every taste.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering tortellini salad recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds. Whether you’re in the mood for something creamy and indulgent or light and refreshing, these salads have got you covered. So, let’s dive in and discover some of the most delicious and flavorful tortellini salads out there!
Classic Italian Tortellini Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
A refreshing twist on a classic salad, this recipe combines the flavors of Italy with creamy tortellini and sweet sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– 1 tsp. dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, olive oil, white wine vinegar, and dried basil. Toss gently.
3. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Avocado and Bacon Tortellini Salad
Elevate your salad game with this creamy, savory, and indulgently rich tortellini dish. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as a show-stopping side.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced avocado, crumbled bacon, and cooked tortellini.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream, lime juice, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
4. Pour the creamy mixture over the tortellini mixture and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek-Inspired Tortellini Salad with Feta and Olives
This refreshing salad combines the creamy richness of feta cheese with the savory taste of olives, all wrapped up in a bed of tender tortellini. Perfect for a light and flavorful lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 tsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine feta cheese, olives, and parsley.
3. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including cooking time for tortellini)
Pesto Tortellini Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Mozzarella
This refreshing salad combines the creamy richness of pesto sauce with the tender bite of tortellini, sweet cherry tomatoes, and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a light yet satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. fresh tortellini
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto sauce (or store-bought)
– 8 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, cherry tomatoes, and pesto sauce. Toss gently to combine.
3. Top the salad with sliced mozzarella cheese and chopped parsley.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Tortellini Salad
This creamy and flavorful salad is a perfect blend of Italian-inspired flavors with a twist of artichoke goodness. With its simplicity and ease, it’s an ideal side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) package cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves, chopped artichoke hearts, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard. Mix well until combined.
3. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine with the spinach mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Parmesan Tortellini Salad
This vibrant salad combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the savory flavor of Parmesan cheese, all wrapped up in a delicious tortellini package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh tortellini
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss red peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until peppers are tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Cook tortellini according to package instructions.
5. In a large bowl, combine roasted peppers, cooked tortellini, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice (if using).
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Mediterranean Tortellini Salad with Lemon-Herb Dressing
Brighten up your plate with this refreshing and flavorful salad, featuring tender tortellini tossed with an array of Mediterranean-inspired ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, olives, artichoke hearts, and feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
4. Add the cooked tortellini to the bowl with the Mediterranean ingredients; toss gently to combine.
5. Drizzle the lemon-herb dressing over the salad; toss again to coat.
6. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top; serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Caprese Tortellini Salad with Balsamic Glaze
A refreshing twist on the classic Caprese salad, this recipe combines creamy tortellini with fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (see note)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil.
3. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Sriracha and Ranch Tortellini Salad
A creamy and spicy twist on a classic pasta salad, this recipe combines the tanginess of ranch dressing with the bold flavor of sriracha sauce. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tortellini
– 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 2 tbsp. Sriracha sauce
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, chopped cilantro, ranch dressing, and Sriracha sauce. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Add the cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss with the chicken mixture until pasta is evenly coated.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
BBQ Chicken Tortellini Salad with Corn and Black Beans
A twist on traditional pasta salad, this BBQ chicken tortellini salad combines the flavors of grilled chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, sweet corn, and savory black beans. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the BBQ sauce to the skillet and stir to combine with the chicken. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for an additional minute.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, grilled chicken mixture, corn kernels, and black beans.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asian-Inspired Sesame Ginger Tortellini Salad
This salad combines the creamy richness of cheese-filled tortellini with the bold flavors of Asia, featuring sesame oil, ginger, and crunchy vegetables. Perfect as a light and refreshing main course or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup sliced carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sesame oil and grated ginger.
3. Add mixed greens, red bell pepper, and carrots to the bowl. Toss to combine.
4. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to coat with the sesame-ginger mixture.
5. Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Tortellini Salad with Blue Cheese
Elevate your pasta game with this spicy and savory salad featuring tender tortellini, succulent chicken, and a tangy blue cheese dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup cooked tortellini
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from skillet; set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add Frank’s RedHot sauce and stir to combine with pan drippings.
5. Add cooked tortellini to the skillet; toss to coat with buffalo sauce.
6. Combine cooked chicken, blue cheese, and cilantro in a bowl. Toss to combine.
7. Serve the salad over the buffalo tortellini mixture.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summer Veggie Tortellini Salad with Zucchini and Squash
This refreshing summer salad combines the flavors of zucchini, squash, and cheese-filled tortellini for a light and satisfying meal. Perfect for a hot day, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked tortellini
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 medium yellow squash, sliced
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add zucchini and squash; cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, sautéed zucchini and squash, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
4. Drizzle with lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon Ranch Tortellini Salad with Peas and Carrots
This delightful salad combines the richness of bacon, the creaminess of ranch dressing, and the sweetness of peas and carrots. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tortellini
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup of ranch dressing
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked bacon, peas and carrots, and ranch dressing. Toss until well combined.
3. Add the cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Antipasto Tortellini Salad with Salami and Provolone
This colorful salad combines the flavors of Italy with the convenience of store-bought tortellini, making it a quick and easy meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package cheese-filled tortellini
– 6 oz salami, sliced
– 8 oz provolone cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, salami, provolone cheese, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Tortellini Salad
Celebrate the flavors of Italy with this refreshing salad featuring tender tortellini, succulent sun-dried tomatoes, and fragrant basil. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil leaves.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and white wine vinegar.
4. Add the cooked tortellini to the bowl with the tomato-basil mixture.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Garlic Butter Tortellini Salad with Shrimp and Asparagus
This light and flavorful salad is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. Fresh asparagus, succulent shrimp, and tender tortellini come together in a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz garlic butter tortellini
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Meanwhile, toss the asparagus with salt, pepper, and 1 tbsp of reserved pasta water. Grill or sauté until tender and slightly charred.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, shrimp, and asparagus. Toss with garlic butter sauce (reserved pasta water mixed with minced garlic) to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Southwest Tortellini Salad with Chipotle Lime Dressing
This vibrant salad combines the creaminess of tortellini with the bold flavors of the Southwest, all tied together with a spicy and tangy chipotle lime dressing.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Chipotle Lime Dressing (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, bell peppers, and red onion.
3. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently.
4. Sprinkle queso fresco or feta cheese and cilantro on top of the salad.
Chipotle Lime Dressing:
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Broccoli and Cheddar Tortellini Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe combines the creaminess of cheddar cheese with the crunch of broccoli and the convenience of store-bought tortellini.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) package cheese-filled tortellini
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add broccoli to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, broccoli mixture, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together white wine vinegar and Dijon mustard. Pour dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Goat Cheese and Walnut Tortellini Salad
Herbed Goat Cheese and Walnut Tortellini Salad Recipe
This refreshing salad combines the creamy richness of herbed goat cheese with the earthy crunch of toasted walnuts, all wrapped up in a delicate tortellini package.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fresh tortellini
– 1/2 cup (120ml) goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup (60g) toasted walnuts
– 2 cups mixed greens
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Toast the walnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the goat cheese, parsley, chives, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, herbed goat cheese mixture, toasted walnuts, and mixed greens. Toss gently to combine.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Discover the ultimate collection of tortellini salad recipes! From classic Italian to bold international flavors, these 20 mouthwatering dishes are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Try pairing creamy avocado and crispy bacon, or go Mediterranean with feta and olives. For a spicy kick, combine sriracha and ranch dressing, or opt for a refreshing summer veggie salad. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and herby or rich and cheesy, there’s a tortellini salad recipe on this list that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
