Imagine a bowl bursting with vibrant colors and fresh flavors—pillowy cheese-filled tortellini mingling with crisp veggies, all tossed in a tangy Italian dressing that wakes up your taste buds with every bite. This Zesty Italian Tortellini & Veggie Pasta Salad is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a light dinner that feels anything but ordinary. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked on this bright and breezy pasta salad!

Why You’ll Love Zesty Italian Tortellini & Veggie Pasta Salad

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. It’s fresh, easy, and packed with textures and flavors that keep you coming back for more. The tangy dressing, the tender tortellini, and the crisp veggies make every forkful a little party in your mouth. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead dish that only tastes better as the flavors meld!

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Use cheese tortellini for a creamy, comforting bite.
• Toss the salad well and let it chill for at least an hour so the flavors really shine.
• Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an herbal boost.
• Toasted pine nuts or sliced olives make fabulous add-ins for extra texture and flavor.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

1. 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
2. 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
3. 1 cup cucumber, diced
4. 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
5. 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
6. 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
7. 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

For the Dressing:

1. 1/3 cup olive oil
2. 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
3. 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
4. 1 clove garlic, minced
5. 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
6. Salt and pepper, to taste
7. 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Tortellini

Cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

2. Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and honey until emulsified.

3. Combine Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine cooled tortellini, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, olives, and basil.

4. Toss and Chill

Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let flavors meld.

5. Serve

Give it a final toss before serving, and garnish with extra fresh basil if desired.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

This salad shines because of its contrast—the tender, cheesy tortellini pairs perfectly with the crisp veggies, while the zesty dressing adds a lively punch that ties everything together. The fresh herbs and olives bring brightness and depth, making it feel fresh and indulgent at the same time.

How to Serve Zesty Italian Tortellini & Veggie Pasta Salad

Serve chilled as a side dish at BBQs, picnics, or family dinners. It also stands on its own as a light lunch or vegetarian dinner paired with crusty bread.

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Add grilled chicken or shrimp to turn it into a heartier main course.
• Toss with mixed greens for a pasta salad-meets-garden salad combo.
• Use as a filling for stuffed bell peppers or wraps.

Additional Tips

• For extra zing, add a splash of lemon juice to the dressing.
• Swap out veggies based on your favorites or seasonal availability.
• Toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds add a lovely crunch.

Make It a Showstopper (Presentation Ideas)

Serve in a clear glass bowl to showcase the vibrant colors. Garnish with whole basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an elegant finish.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use frozen tortellini? Yes, just cook according to package instructions.
2. How long does the salad keep? Up to 3 days refrigerated.
3. Can I make the dressing ahead? Absolutely, store in the fridge for up to a week.
4. Is this salad vegetarian? Yes, naturally!
5. Can I add meat? Grilled chicken or Italian sausage work well.
6. What’s a good substitute for red wine vinegar? White wine or apple cider vinegar.
7. Can I use dried herbs? Fresh herbs are best, but dried will work in a pinch.
8. Can I make this gluten-free? Use gluten-free tortellini.
9. How do I prevent the tortellini from sticking? Rinse with cold water after cooking.
10. Can I double the recipe? Yes, it scales up beautifully!

Conclusion

Zesty Italian Tortellini & Veggie Pasta Salad is fresh, flavorful, and effortlessly versatile. It’s perfect for any occasion and sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Grab a fork and dive into this celebration of textures and tastes—you won’t regret it!

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