Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad

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There’s something about a chilled pasta salad that instantly feels like summer in a bowl. This Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad takes that idea and makes it heartier, brighter, and far more flavorful. The soft, cheese-filled tortellini bring comfort, while a rainbow of fresh vegetables adds crunch and vibrant color. Tossed together with a light, zesty dressing, every forkful offers a perfect balance of tender pasta and crisp garden freshness.

Whether you’re hosting a picnic, attending a backyard barbecue, or just looking for a quick lunch prep for the week, this salad delivers. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights but special enough to impress guests. The best part? You can prepare it ahead of time, letting the flavors mingle for an even tastier bite the next day.

Why You’ll Love This Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad

You’ll love how customizable this dish is — swap vegetables for what’s in season, add grilled chicken or shrimp for protein, or keep it vegetarian for a lighter option. The creamy tortellini base makes it satisfying, while the crisp veggies keep it fresh. It’s also a one-bowl wonder, meaning minimal cleanup and maximum flavor payoff.

What Kind of Tortellini Works Best?

Fresh cheese tortellini from the refrigerated section will give you the best texture and flavor for this salad. They cook in minutes and hold their shape beautifully when tossed with dressing. If you prefer, you can use spinach or mushroom-filled varieties to add an earthy note. Frozen tortellini works in a pinch — just cook carefully to avoid over-softening.

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Ingredients for the Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad

The secret to a great pasta salad is fresh, flavorful ingredients that work together to create both texture and taste. This recipe brings together tender tortellini, crisp vegetables, and a tangy dressing for a balanced and colorful dish.

• Cheese tortellini – the hearty, cheesy pasta base that makes this salad filling and comforting.
• Cherry tomatoes – juicy bursts of sweetness and vibrant color.
• Cucumber – cool, crisp texture to balance the richness of the pasta.
• Red bell pepper – adds crunch and a mild sweetness.
• Red onion – brings a sharp bite that brightens the salad.
• Black olives – a briny, savory touch.
• Fresh basil – fragrant herb that elevates the freshness.
• Italian dressing – ties all the flavors together with a zesty, tangy finish.

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How To Make the Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package directions until just tender. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta cools, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and red bell pepper, and finely slice the red onion. Chop the fresh basil leaves.

Step 3: Combine the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled tortellini, prepared vegetables, black olives, and basil. Pour over the Italian dressing.

Step 4: Toss and Chill

Gently toss everything together until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

Step 5: Serve

Give the salad a quick toss before serving. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

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Serving and Storing Your Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad

This recipe makes enough to feed about 6 people as a side dish or 4 as a main course. Serve it chilled for the best texture and flavor. It’s perfect for picnics because it holds well without wilting, especially if you keep it in a cooler.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day. Just give it a gentle stir before serving again, and if it seems dry, add a splash of extra dressing.

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What to Serve With Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad?

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken

Adds a light, savory protein that pairs beautifully with the bright flavors of the salad.

Garlic Breadsticks

Perfect for soaking up any extra dressing and adding a warm, buttery touch.

Fresh Fruit Salad

A refreshing contrast that keeps the meal light and summery.

Caprese Skewers

Mozzarella, basil, and tomato bring complementary Italian flavors.

Herb Roasted Vegetables

For a hearty vegetarian spread, roasted zucchini, carrots, and eggplant add depth.

Seared Salmon

Rich and flaky, salmon balances the freshness of the salad with healthy fats.

Stuffed Mini Peppers

A colorful, bite-sized side filled with cheese or hummus for extra texture.

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Want More Pasta Salad Ideas?

If you love this Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Mom’s Signature Macaroni Salad for a creamy, classic crowd-pleaser.
• Zesty Taco Pasta Salad when you want bold Southwestern flavors.
• Mediterranean White Beans & Greens for a protein-packed, wholesome option.
• Creamy Chicken and Broccoli for a warm, comforting variation.
• Skillet Ricotta Pasta with Roasted Broccoli for an easy, cheesy dinner.

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Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use homemade dressing or store-bought? Did you try adding grilled veggies?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too — let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated fresh and hearty salad recipes on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to dishes for every season.

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Conclusion

This Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad is proof that simple ingredients can create something vibrant, satisfying, and versatile. It’s a quick fix for weeknights, a star at summer gatherings, and a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

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