This Easy Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad is a burst of color and flavor! Tender tortellini is mixed with juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and tangy feta cheese—all dressed in a zesty vinaigrette.
It’s the perfect dish for a picnic or a potluck, and leftovers? Well, they never last long at my place! I love how fast it is to whip up—just mix, chill, and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: I use refrigerated cheese tortellini because it’s quick and easy. You can substitute it with frozen tortellini or even whole wheat for a healthier option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a sweet burst of flavor. If they’re not in season, try regular tomatoes diced or even canned diced tomatoes (drained) in a pinch.
Cucumber: A crisp cucumber works best. If you prefer a sweeter crunch, substitute with bell peppers. Pickled cucumbers can also add a nice zing!
Kalamata Olives: These bring a rich, briny flavor. If you can’t find them, green olives or any pitted olives you like will work, though the taste may vary a bit.
Feta Cheese: Feta is classic here for its tanginess. If you’re dairy-free, try using tofu feta or skip it altogether for a lighter salad.
How Do I Make Sure the Tortellini is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking tortellini correctly is key for the salad’s texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes, until they float to the surface.
- Once cooked, drain them immediately.
- Rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool them down.
- Give them a gentle toss so they don’t stick together.
This prevents mushy pasta and keeps each tortellini nice and firm in your salad!
Easy Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (about 9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad takes just about 15 minutes of preparation time, plus at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. That gives you enough time to let all those delicious flavors come together beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Begin by cooking the tortellini according to the package instructions. Typically, this will take around 3-5 minutes until they float to the top of the boiling water. Once they’re done, drain them and rinse under cold water to cool them quickly. Set them aside.
2. Combine the Fresh Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled tortellini, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced Kalamata olives, finely chopped red onion, and fresh parsley. It’s a rainbow of colors!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, garlic powder, and a little salt and pepper to taste. This dressing will add a zesty flavor to your salad.
4. Mix It All Together:
Pour the dressing over the tortellini mixture and gently toss to ensure everything is nicely coated with that tasty dressing.
5. Add the Feta:
Carefully fold in the crumbled feta cheese, being gentle so that the feta doesn’t crumble too much.
6. Chill and Enhance Flavors:
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps all the flavors meld together for a delicious taste.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed. Now you’re ready to enjoy this refreshing and colorful dish!
Enjoy this vibrant and refreshing Greek tortellini pasta salad!
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This salad can be made up to 24 hours in advance. Just prepare it as directed, cover it, and keep it in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen, making it even tastier!
What Can I Substitute for Tortellini?
If you can’t find tortellini, you can use any short pasta like penne, rotini, or farfalle. Just cook the pasta according to package instructions and cool before mixing with the other ingredients.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
This pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, keep in mind that the cucumbers may become soggy over time, so you might want to add them fresh for the best texture.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to customize the salad by adding any of your favorite vegetables. Bell peppers, spinach, or artichoke hearts would be delicious additions!
