Summer is here, and it’s time to refresh our menus with light, cool, and creamy dishes that are perfect for hot weather. One of our favorite ways to do this is by incorporating tortellini into salads. The combination of cheese-filled pasta rings, fresh vegetables, and tangy dressings creates a delightful harmony of flavors and textures.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 mouthwatering creamy tortellini salad recipes that are sure to become your new go-to’s for the summer season. From classic combinations like spinach and bacon to more adventurous pairings like buffalo chicken and black beans, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, these salads are sure to hit the spot. So, let’s dive in and get ready to beat the heat with some cool, creamy, and deliciously refreshing tortellini salads!
Spinach and Bacon Tortellini Salad
This salad combines the creamy richness of spinach and Parmesan cheese with the savory smokiness of crispy bacon, all wrapped up in a flavorful package. Perfect for a light yet satisfying meal or as a refreshing side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of cheese-filled tortellini (about 12 oz)
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 cups of fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup of shaved Parmesan cheese
– 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 spinach leaves, crumbled bacon, and cherry tomatoes.
3. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Pesto Tortellini Salad
A flavorful and refreshing twist on the classic pasta salad, this recipe combines the richness of sun-dried tomatoes with the creaminess of pesto and the comfort of tortellini.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chopped sun-dried tomatoes, pesto, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese.
3. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Avocado and Ranch Tortellini Salad
Elevate your salad game with this refreshing twist on classic tortellini. The creamy avocado and tangy ranch dressing add a rich and satisfying flavor profile to this easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz cheese-filled tortellini
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine diced avocado, ranch dressing, cherry tomatoes, and chopped parsley.
- Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including cooking tortellini)
Greek-Style Tortellini Salad with Feta
Greek-Style Tortellini Salad with Feta
Experience the flavors of Greece with this refreshing salad that combines creamy feta cheese, tender tortellini, and crunchy veggies.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. Greek-style cheese tortellini
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– 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, parsley, mint, red bell pepper, and cucumber.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar.
4. Pour dressing over the salad mixture and toss to coat.
5. Add cooked tortellini and toss gently to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Tortellini Salad
This hearty salad combines the spicy kick of buffalo chicken with the creamy richness of tortellini, all wrapped up in a crunchy package. Perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast
– 1 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 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 chicken, buffalo wing sauce, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix until well coated.
3. Add the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese, and cilantro to the bowl with the chicken mixture.
4. Toss everything together until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Caprese Tortellini Salad with Balsamic Glaze
This refreshing summer salad combines the flavors of Italy’s iconic Caprese salad (fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil) with cheese-filled tortellini and a rich balsamic glaze. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (see notes)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes, sliced mozzarella, and chopped basil.
3. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad and toss again to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes cooking time for tortellini)
Notes:
– Balsamic glaze can be found in most grocery stores or made at home by reducing balsamic vinegar on low heat until thickened.
– Feel free to adjust the amount of balsamic glaze to your taste.
Roasted Red Pepper and Artichoke Tortellini Salad
Roasted Red Pepper and Artichoke Tortellini Salad Recipe
This vibrant salad combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the savory flavor of artichokes, all wrapped up in tender tortellini. Perfect for a light and refreshing lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
• 1 large can of artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 2 roasted red bell peppers, peeled and sliced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add artichoke hearts and roasted red peppers to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked tortellini, artichoke-red pepper mixture, and lemon juice in a large bowl.
6. Toss gently to combine; serve warm or at room temperature. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Southwest Tortellini Salad with Black Beans
This flavorful salad combines the creaminess of tortellini with the bold flavors of the Southwest, all topped off with crunchy black beans and a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine black beans, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, and cumin.
4. Pour dressing over the bean mixture and toss to coat.
5. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Top with shredded cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Tortellini Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe combines the flavors of lemon, garlic, and shrimp with cheese-filled tortellini for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp.)
• 2 tbsp. olive oil
• 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 skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, shrimp mixture, lemon juice, salt, and pepper; toss to combine.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli and Cheddar Tortellini Salad
This creamy and crunchy salad is a perfect combination of flavors and textures, featuring tender tortellini, crisp broccoli, and a hint of cheddar cheese. It’s an ideal side dish or light lunch for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cheese-filled tortellini
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar.
3. Add the broccoli florets to the bowl and toss until coated with the dressing.
4. Combine the cooked tortellini and chopped parsley (if using) with the broccoli mixture.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Mediterranean Tortellini Salad with Olives
Mediterranean Tortellini Salad with Olives: A flavorful fusion of Italy and the Mediterranean!
This colorful salad combines tender tortellini, juicy olives, and a medley of fresh vegetables for a delicious and refreshing meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. 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 mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and sliced olives.
3. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently.
4. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad; season with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Pesto and Parmesan Tortellini Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Italy with a creamy pesto sauce, crispy tortellini, and tangy parmesan cheese. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto sauce (or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup 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 cooked tortellini, pesto sauce, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Toss gently to combine, ensuring the tortellini is well coated with the sauce and cheese.
4. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– 5-7 minutes to cook tortellini
– No additional cooking time required for pesto sauce or assembly
BBQ Ranch Tortellini Salad with Corn
This refreshing summer salad combines the creaminess of ranch dressing with the smokiness of BBQ sauce, all wrapped up in a delicious tortellini package. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked tortellini
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, corn kernels, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
3. In a small bowl, whisk together ranch dressing and BBQ sauce until well combined.
4. Add the cooked tortellini to the salad and drizzle with the ranch-BBQ mixture; toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asian Sesame Tortellini Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salads, this Asian-inspired dish combines chewy tortellini with crunchy sesame and savory vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 tbsp. sesame oil
– 1 tsp. soy sauce
– 1 tsp. honey
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 1 cup mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1 cup sliced red bell pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, and honey until well combined.
3. Add scallions, toasted sesame seeds, mixed greens, and red bell pepper to the bowl. Toss to combine.
4. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to coat with the dressing.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Tortellini Salad with Mozzarella
This classic Italian-inspired salad combines tender tortellini, fresh tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella for a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 8 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil leaves, and cooked tortellini.
3. Arrange mozzarella slices on top of the pasta mixture.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including cooking tortellini)
Cucumber Dill Tortellini Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the flavors of cucumber, dill, and cheese-filled tortellini.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cheese-filled tortellini (such as ricotta or mozzarella)
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and chopped fresh dill.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the yogurt mixture over the cucumber mixture and toss to combine.
5. Add the cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Pepper Tortellini Salad
A flavorful twist on traditional pasta salads, this spicy sausage and pepper tortellini salad is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 8 oz. tortellini
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp. balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp. dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Remove the sausage from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave the drippings in the skillet.
3. Add the chopped onion and sliced bell peppers to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss to combine with the vegetables and sausage drippings.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and dried oregano. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bacon Ranch Tortellini Pasta Salad
This creamy and savory pasta salad combines the rich flavors of bacon, ranch dressing, and cheese with the convenience of store-bought tortellini. Perfect for potlucks or casual gatherings, this recipe is easy to prepare and serves a crowd.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) package cheese-filled tortellini
– 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup ranch dressing
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 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, whisk together ranch dressing and mayonnaise until smooth.
3. Add crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, and chopped parsley to the bowl; stir until well combined.
4. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss to coat with the creamy sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Garlic Butter Tortellini Salad with Peas
This creamy and flavorful salad is a perfect blend of Italian-inspired flavors and fresh peas, making it an ideal side dish or light lunch. With minimal ingredients and quick cooking time, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add peas to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
4. Combine cooked tortellini, pea mixture, and Parmesan cheese in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zesty Italian Tortellini Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Italy with a tangy twist, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
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 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– 1 tsp. dried oregano
– 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, olives, artichoke hearts, and red onion.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, and dried oregano.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss to combine.
5. Add cooked tortellini and crumbled feta cheese; toss gently to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to beat the heat this summer with these creamy tortellini salad recipes! From classic combinations like Spinach and Bacon to bold flavors like Buffalo Chicken, there’s something for everyone. Try adding some Mediterranean flair with olives and feta, or a Southwestern twist with black beans. And don’t forget about the creamy additions – avocado, ranch, and pesto are just a few options to get you started. Whatever your taste buds desire, these 20 recipes will provide endless inspiration for light, refreshing meals all season long.
