Description
A vibrant fusion of Mediterranean flavors and cheesy pasta, this Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad combines fresh veggies, briny olives, and creamy feta with tender tortellini for a refreshing yet hearty dish.
Ingredients
- Cheese Tortellini: 20 oz package – Tender, cheesy pasta base.
- Cherry Tomatoes: 2 cups, halved – Sweet, juicy bursts of flavor.
- Cucumber: 1 large, diced – Adds crisp freshness.
- Red Bell Pepper: 1 medium, diced – Sweet crunch and color.
- Red Onion: ½ small, thinly sliced – Sharp and zesty bite.
- Kalamata Olives: ½ cup, pitted and halved – Briny, salty punch.
- Feta Cheese: 1 cup, crumbled – Creamy, tangy topping.
- Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped – Adds brightness.
- Olive Oil: ½ cup – Smooth, flavorful base for dressing.
- Red Wine Vinegar: 3 tablespoons – Tangy acidity to balance.
- Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon – Helps emulsify the dressing.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced – Aromatic punch.
- Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon – Signature Mediterranean herb.
- Salt: ½ teaspoon – Brings everything together.
- Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon – Subtle spice.
Instructions
- Preheat Your Equipment: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Combine Ingredients: Cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: In a large bowl, add tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, olives, and parsley.
- Assemble the Dish: Add cooled tortellini to the bowl with the veggies.
- Cook to Perfection: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour over pasta and veggies.
- Finishing Touches: Toss gently until everything is well coated. Sprinkle crumbled feta on top.
- Serve and Enjoy: Chill for at least 30 minutes, then serve cold or at room temperature.
Notes
- Note: Don’t overcook tortellini—it should stay firm for the salad.
- Note: Chill before serving to let the flavors blend beautifully.
- Note: Double the dressing if preparing a day ahead, as pasta absorbs liquid.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg