Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad
Introduction
Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad is a refreshing and colorful dish that combines the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with the comfort of cheesy tortellini. It’s perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or as a light lunch. This salad is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it a favorite among many home cooks.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad is a fantastic way to enjoy healthy ingredients in a tasty form. The salad is packed with fresh vegetables, hearty cheese tortellini, and a tangy dressing that brings everything together. It’s a great way to use seasonal produce and is suitable for various occasions. Plus, it’s a one-bowl wonder, making cleanup a breeze!
How to Make Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad
Creating this delightful salad is simple and quick. With just a few steps, you can whip up a colorful and nutritious dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 9 oz (250g) cheese tortellini, fresh or refrigerated
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, halved
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions.
- Drain the tortellini and rinse it with cold water. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooled tortellini and crumbled feta to the vegetable mix.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Chill for 15–20 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
How to Serve Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad
Serve Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad chilled or at room temperature. It makes a fantastic side dish or can be enjoyed as a light main meal. To add extra flair, you can garnish it with additional parsley or feta cheese before serving.
How to Store Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad
To store leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last for up to 3 days. However, the tortellini might absorb some of the dressing over time, so you may want to add a little extra olive oil and lemon juice before serving again.
Tips to Make Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- If you prefer a heartier salad, you can add grilled chicken or shrimp.
- Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preference or what you have available.
Variation
You can easily make this salad gluten-free by using gluten-free tortellini. Additionally, throw in other veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or artichokes for extra flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad a day in advance. Just keep it stored in the refrigerator.
Q: Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
A: Absolutely! It’s great for meal prep since it stores well and is easy to portion.
Q: Can I substitute other types of pasta?
A: Yes, you can substitute the tortellini with other pasta shapes like penne or rotini. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad!
