When it comes to pasta salads, few can compete with the creamy, cheesy goodness of a well-crafted tortellini salad. The combination of cheese-filled pasta rings, crunchy vegetables, and tangy dressings is a match made in heaven. In this article, we’re counting down the top 20 best tortellini salad recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
From classic Italian-inspired combinations to bold international twists, these salads showcase the versatility and deliciousness of tortellini as a base ingredient. Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing side dish or a satisfying lunch or dinner option, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 creamy best tortellini salad recipes.
Classic Italian Tortellini Salad with Parmesan Dressing
A delicious and refreshing salad that combines the flavors of Italy, this classic tortellini salad is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With its creamy Parmesan dressing and crunchy vegetables, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup Parmesan dressing (see below)
Parmesan Dressing:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
3. Add cooked tortellini to the salad and toss gently.
4. Drizzle Parmesan dressing over the top and toss again to coat.
5. Sprinkle crumbled Parmesan cheese over the salad and serve.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spinach and Tortellini Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
This refreshing salad combines cooked tortellini, wilted spinach, and a tangy lemon vinaigrette for a light and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped red onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and salt. Pour dressing over tortellini, spinach mixture, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
5. Toss to combine, adjusting seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Tortellini Salad with Basil Pesto
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, creamy basil pesto, and cheese-filled tortellini for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (9 oz) package cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons basil pesto
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and cooked tortellini.
3. Stir in the basil pesto and Parmesan cheese.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! Just chill and serve.
Greek-Style Tortellini Salad with Feta and Olives
Experience the flavors of Greece with this refreshing salad featuring cheese-filled tortellini, crumbly feta, and briny olives.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar and olive oil. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Avocado and Tortellini Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the creaminess of avocado with the delicate flavor of cheese-filled tortellini, all tied together with a zesty cilantro lime dressing.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced avocado and cooked tortellini.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil to make the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the tortellini and avocado mixture; toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Tortellini Salad with Balsamic Glaze
This colorful salad combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the creaminess of tortellini, all tied together with a tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp. salt
– 1/2 tsp. black pepper
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Remove the peppers from the oven and let cool. Peel off skin, then chop into strips.
6. Combine cooked tortellini, roasted peppers, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
7. Whisk together balsamic vinegar and chopped parsley. Pour glaze over the salad and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Caprese Tortellini Salad with Fresh Mozzarella and Cherry Tomatoes
This classic Italian-inspired salad is a refreshing twist on the traditional Caprese salad, featuring cheese-filled tortellini instead of mozzarella slices. Perfect for a light and flavorful lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 large cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella slices.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon and Ranch Tortellini Salad with Cheddar Cheese
A creamy and savory twist on a classic pasta salad, this recipe combines the flavors of crispy bacon, tangy ranch dressing, and melted cheddar cheese with tender tortellini.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup of ranch dressing
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, crumbled bacon, ranch dressing, shredded cheddar cheese, cherry tomatoes, and chopped parsley.
3. Toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are well coated with the creamy ranch dressing.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes cooking time for tortellini)
Mediterranean Tortellini Salad with Artichokes and Kalamata Olives
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with tender tortellini, artichoke hearts, and briny olives. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 (14 oz.) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine artichoke hearts, olives, red onion, and feta cheese.
3. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Tortellini Salad with Pine Nuts and Arugula
Elevate your salad game with this creamy and flavorful combination of homemade pesto, tender tortellini, crunchy pine nuts, and peppery arugula.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto (see note)
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, pesto, and pine nuts. Toss until the pasta is well coated with the pesto mixture.
3. Add the arugula leaves to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on tortellini cooking time)
Southwest Tortellini Salad with Black Beans and Corn
This vibrant salad combines the flavors of the Southwest with the convenience of store-bought tortellini. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, it’s also a great option for a potluck or picnic.
Ingredients:
– 1 package cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine black beans, corn kernels, bell pepper, and cilantro.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, salt, pepper, and cumin.
4. Pour dressing over the bean mixture and stir to combine.
5. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli and Tortellini Salad with Creamy Caesar Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this delightful combination of tender tortellini, crunchy broccoli, and a rich Creamy Caesar Dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch broccoli, trimmed
– 8 oz cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup Creamy Caesar Dressing (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
2. In a separate pot, steam broccoli until tender, about 5 minutes. Shock in an ice bath to stop cooking.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Add cooked tortellini, steamed broccoli, and Creamy Caesar Dressing. Toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asian-Inspired Tortellini Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing
Elevate your pasta game with this refreshing and flavorful salad, combining tender tortellini with crunchy vegetables and a zesty sesame ginger dressing.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1 cup sliced carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, red bell pepper, carrots, and scallions.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and honey to make the dressing.
4. Add cooked tortellini to the salad bowl and toss with the sesame ginger dressing until well coated.
5. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Tortellini Salad with Blue Cheese Crumbles
Buffalo Chicken Tortellini Salad with Blue Cheese Crumbles
A twist on the classic buffalo chicken wings, this salad combines spicy chicken, creamy blue cheese, and tender tortellini for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 8 ounces tortellini
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, Frank’s RedHot sauce, and olive oil. Mix well.
3. Add the cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss with the chicken mixture.
4. Top with mixed greens, blue cheese crumbles, and cilantro.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Shrimp and Tortellini Salad with Lemon Garlic Dressing
This refreshing salad combines succulent shrimp, tender tortellini, and a tangy lemon garlic dressing for a light and flavorful meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté shrimp with lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper until pink and cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cooked tortellini, and sautéed shrimp.
4. Whisk together olive oil and remaining lemon juice for the dressing. Pour over salad and toss to coat.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Tortellini Salad with Goat Cheese and Walnuts
This refreshing salad combines the creaminess of goat cheese, the crunch of walnuts, and the savory flavor of herbed tortellini for a delightful twist on traditional pasta salads.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz herbed tortellini
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine goat cheese, parsley, and basil.
3. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Sprinkle walnuts over the top of the salad and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including cooking time for tortellini)
Tomato Basil Tortellini Salad with Fresh Herb Dressing
This colorful salad is a perfect combination of flavors and textures, featuring tender tortellini, juicy tomatoes, and fresh herbs. It’s a quick and easy meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine tomatoes, basil, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar.
4. Add the dressing to the tomato mixture and toss to combine.
5. Add cooked tortellini to the salad and toss gently.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Zesty Tortellini Salad with Pepperoncini and Italian Sausage
This hearty salad combines the flavors of Italy with a kick from pepperoncini, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing brunch. The creamy dressing and tangy sausage add depth to this colorful dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup (120g) pepperoncini, sliced
– 1/2 cup (120ml) olive oil
– 2 tbsp (30g) white wine vinegar
– 1 tsp (5g) Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; set aside.
2. Grill Italian sausage until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Slice into thick strips.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, sliced sausage, parsley, and pepperoncini.
4. Whisk together olive oil, vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl; pour over the salad.
5. Toss to combine and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Caesar Tortellini Salad with Croutons and Parmesan
Transform your salad game with this creamy, crunchy, and flavorful recipe that combines the best of Italy and Rome. This Chicken Caesar Tortellini Salad with Croutons and Parmesan is a show-stopping main course or a satisfying side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup croutons (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced chicken, and croutons.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together Caesar dressing and 1 tablespoon water.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Tortellini Salad with Balsamic Reduction
Roasted Vegetable Tortellini Salad with Balsamic Reduction: A vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the warmth of roasted vegetables with the creaminess of tortellini and a tangy balsamic reduction. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound mixed tortellini
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss sweet potato, red bell pepper, and zucchini with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook tortellini according to package instructions.
4. In a small saucepan, reduce balsamic vinegar over medium heat until thickened, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Combine roasted vegetables, cooked tortellini, and balsamic reduction in a large bowl. Drizzle with honey and toss to combine.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the creamy world of tortellini salads with these 20 mouth-watering recipes! From classic Italian to Mediterranean, Asian-inspired, and more, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at making a Parmesan dressing, a lemon vinaigrette, or a basil pesto to add an extra layer of flavor. With ingredients ranging from spinach to avocado, feta to black beans, and even blue cheese crumbles, these salads are sure to satisfy your cravings.