A Tortellini Salad is the perfect blend of fresh, zesty flavors and satisfying textures, making it an ideal dish for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual weeknight meal, a summer potluck, or even a packed lunch, this vibrant salad will not disappoint. The combination of cheese-filled tortellini, crisp veggies, and a tangy dressing offers a light yet filling dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. Plus, it only gets better as it sits, making it a fantastic make-ahead option!
This recipe swaps simple pasta for plump cheese and spinach tortellini, bringing a delightful twist to your regular pasta salad. Fresh ingredients like cucumbers, bell peppers, and artichokes provide crispness, while kalamata olives, fresh basil, feta, and turkey summer sausage add bold flavors and layers of texture. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for hot days when you don’t feel like turning on the stove for long!
When it comes to creating a big batch of salad to enjoy throughout the week, this tortellini salad is an absolute must. It’s simple, quick, and can be tailored to suit your preferences. Whether you’re serving it to a crowd or packing leftovers for lunch, this recipe is versatile and packed with flavor. So, why not make extra? Leftovers are just as delicious the next day, making it a perfect office or school lunch option.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Tortellini Salad is the ideal recipe when you’re looking for something simple yet flavorful. It combines the richness of tortellini with the freshness of vegetables and the tanginess of a zesty dressing. Whether served as a side dish or a light main course, it’s guaranteed to impress! The recipe is highly versatile, so you can swap ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it a great go-to salad for any time of the year.
Ingredients Overview
The ingredients in this salad are a delightful mix of flavors and textures. The main component is the cheese and spinach-filled tortellini, which adds both richness and substance. Fresh cucumbers and bell peppers offer crunch and freshness, while artichokes and kalamata olives bring a Mediterranean twist. The addition of turkey summer sausage, feta, and basil balances the richness with savory flavors and a fragrant herb finish. You can customize the salad by swapping meats or cheeses, making it a truly versatile dish.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once the water is boiling, prepare the dressing while waiting for it to heat. This will save time during the process. When the water is ready, move on to the next step.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, grated garlic, and dried oregano. Add salt and pepper to taste, then stir in finely chopped red onion. Set the dressing aside and let it marinate.
Step 3: Cook the Tortellini
Add the tortellini to the boiling salted water and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well, then immediately rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let the pasta cool down before proceeding.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
Once the pasta is cooled, add it to the bowl with the dressing. Then, toss in chopped bell peppers, cucumber slices, kalamata olives, and artichoke hearts. Stir gently to ensure everything is coated in the dressing.
Step 5: Add the Meat, Cheese, and Herbs
Add the sliced summer sausage, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh basil to the salad. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. Give the salad another gentle toss to combine the ingredients.
Step 6: Chill Before Serving
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the flavors blend together. Toss the salad once more before serving to evenly distribute the dressing.
Tips for the Best Recipe
- Generously salt your pasta cooking water to infuse flavor into the tortellini.
- Rinse the cooked tortellini under cold water immediately to prevent overcooking and to cool them down quickly.
- Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop fully.
Variations to Try
- Swap summer sausage for pepperoni, salami, or rotisserie chicken for different flavor profiles.
- For a meatless option, replace the sausage with chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian twist.
- Experiment with cheeses by using mini mozzarella balls or shredded Italian blend instead of feta.
- Add more veggies like cherry tomatoes, broccoli, or zucchini for added crunch and color.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes! Frozen tortellini works just as well as fresh. Just be sure to follow the package instructions for cooking. - How can I make this salad spicier?
You can add some crushed red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little heat. - Can I make this salad a day in advance?
Absolutely! This salad actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. - Can I use other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with vegetables like cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or even carrots for a unique twist. - How long does this salad last in the fridge?
Leftovers will last about 3 to 5 days when stored in an airtight container.
How to Store and Reheat
Store leftover tortellini salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. Be sure to stir it well before serving to redistribute the dressing. Reheating isn’t necessary, as this salad is best enjoyed cold.
Conclusion
This Tortellini Salad is an easy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a family meal, a picnic, or even meal prepping for the week, this salad is sure to impress with its fresh ingredients and bold flavors. It’s versatile, quick, and can be tailored to your preferences, making it a must-try in your recipe rotation.
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