This Easy Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad is a bright and tasty dish that combines cheese-filled tortellini with fresh veggies like tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives. It’s dressed with a simple zesty vinaigrette!
This salad is perfect for picnics or quick lunches. I love how colorful it looks on the table, and it’s great for using up those veggies in your fridge. Plus, it’s ready in just 20 minutes—how cool is that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is the star here, but you could use spinach or meat-filled tortellini if you prefer. Just be sure to check the cooking times, as they might differ.
Grape Tomatoes: These add sweetness and color. If you can’t find grape tomatoes, cherry tomatoes work well too. You can also substitute with diced bell peppers for a crunch.
Cucumber: A refreshing addition, but if cucumbers aren’t available, try using diced bell pepper or even zucchini for a different twist!
Kalamata Olives: They bring a briny flavor. If you’re not a fan, black olives or green olives can also be used. Just ensure they’re pitted before adding!
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a unique tang. If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, crumbled tofu with a splash of lemon can be a good substitute.
How Do I Make the Dressing Just Right?
The dressing pulls everything together! Here’s how to make it shine:
- Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor; don’t skimp here.
- Red wine vinegar adds a nice tang, but you could use apple cider vinegar if you prefer a sweeter note.
- Fresh minced garlic can really enhance the dressing; just be cautious not to add too much!
- Whisk the dressing well to emulsify it. If it separates, just give it a good stir before pouring it over the salad.
Letting the salad rest in the fridge for at least 20 minutes not only cools it down but also allows those tasty flavors to blend beautifully together. Enjoy your salad!
Easy Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, chopped (about half a medium cucumber)
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional, adjust to taste)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad comes together quickly! You’ll need about 10 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes of cooking time. Just let it chill in the fridge for at least 20 minutes to let the flavors mix together perfectly.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by cooking the tortellini according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once done, drain the tortellini and rinse them with cold water to cool them off and stop the cooking process. Make sure they are well-drained!
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooked tortellini, halved grape tomatoes, chopped cucumber, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. This colorful mixture is visually appealing and bursting with flavor!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic (if you’re using it), dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. This zesty dressing will bring all the ingredients together.
4. Mix Everything Together:
Pour the dressing over the tortellini mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together to coat all the ingredients evenly. This step is key for a flavorful salad!
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 20 minutes. This chilling time allows all those delicious flavors to meld together. After that, you can serve it chilled or at room temperature.
6. Optional Garnish:
If you like, sprinkle some extra dried oregano or freshly chopped herbs like parsley on top before serving for an added touch!
Enjoy this refreshing and colorful Greek tortellini pasta salad that’s perfect for summer lunches, backyard barbecues, or potlucks!
FAQ for Easy Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini! Just follow the package instructions for cooking time, as frozen versions usually require a little longer to cook than refrigerated ones. Be sure to drain and cool them as instructed.
What Can I Substitute for Kalamata Olives?
If you’re not a fan of Kalamata olives, you can substitute them with black olives or green olives. You could also skip the olives altogether if you prefer a milder flavor. Just make sure they are pitted!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, but it’s best to consume it within this timeframe for optimal freshness.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! You can add or swap in other fresh vegetables like bell peppers, red onion, or even artichoke hearts. Just keep the total volume similar to maintain balance in flavor and texture.
