Lorenzo Devereaux
This Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad is bursting with colorful vegetables, tender cheese-filled tortellini, and a zesty Italian-style vinaigrette. It’s a summer dream in a bowl that celebrates freshness and flavor with every bite. Think vibrant zucchini slices, juicy cherry tomatoes, red onions, and basil leaves tangled between rich tortellini pillows.
Whether you’re prepping a dish for a barbecue, potluck, or light dinner, this salad is your go-to. It’s satisfyingly hearty yet bright enough to feel refreshing. Plus, it stores wonderfully, making it a great make-ahead option for busy weeks.
What Kind of Tortellini Works Best for Pasta Salad?
Refrigerated cheese tortellini is your best bet. It cooks quickly and holds its shape well once chilled. While frozen tortellini is a solid backup, fresh tortellini from the fridge section has that delicate texture that elevates this salad from simple to showstopping.
Avoid dry, shelf-stable tortellini for this recipe; they tend to be firmer and lack that pillowy softness we love in pasta salads.
Ingredients for the Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad
Cheese Tortellini – The creamy filling brings richness that balances the zesty vinaigrette and fresh vegetables.
Cherry Tomatoes – Adds juicy sweetness and a pop of vibrant red.
Cucumber – Crisp, cool slices give crunch and freshness.
Red Onion – Sliced thinly for just the right bite of zing.
Fresh Basil – The herbal note that ties everything together.
Olive Oil + Red Wine Vinegar – A simple, classic base for the vinaigrette.
Italian Seasoning + Crushed Red Pepper – A dash of boldness without overwhelming heat.
Salt + Pepper – To season everything perfectly.
How To Make the Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool completely.
Step 2: Prep the Vegetables
While the tortellini cools, slice the cherry tomatoes in half, thinly slice the cucumber, and cut the red onion into slivers. Tear or chiffonade the fresh basil leaves.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, salt, and black pepper. Whisk (or shake if using a jar) until the dressing emulsifies.
Step 4: Toss the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and basil. Pour the vinaigrette over the top and gently toss everything together until well coated.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Just before serving, give it a final toss and taste to adjust seasoning if needed.
How to Serve and Store Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad
Serve this chilled or slightly cool, making it the perfect side dish for summer gatherings or a refreshing lunch on its own. The salad is at its best after sitting for a little while, allowing the tortellini to soak up the vinaigrette flavors.
To store, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days. If the salad seems dry after chilling, simply drizzle with a bit more olive oil and give it a gentle stir before serving again.
What to Serve With Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad?
Grilled Chicken Skewers
The smoky char from grilled chicken pairs beautifully with the bright, zesty flavors of the salad.
Garlic Bread or Focaccia
A buttery, herbed bread is great for scooping up bites of the pasta salad.
Lemon Herb Salmon
This light, flaky fish adds protein and complements the Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
Marinated Olives
A briny, savory contrast that keeps the whole meal feeling vibrant.
Roasted Parmesan Green Beans
These crispy beans add a warm veggie side without stealing the show. Try them with our Roasted Parmesan Green Beans.
Fresh Fruit Skewers
Juicy watermelon, grapes, and strawberries add a sweet finish or balance for a picnic-style meal.
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
For something a bit fancier, these bundles are salty, savory, and easy to make.
Iced Herbal Tea or Sparkling Lemonade
Keep things cool and hydrating with a crisp, citrusy drink.
Want More Pasta Salad and Fresh Dish Ideas?
If this Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad hits the spot, here are some more fresh and comforting dishes you’ll love:
- Amazing Shrimp Pasta Salad for a seafood-packed cold option.
- Deviled Egg Pasta Salad for a creamy, tangy twist.
- The Ultimate Italian Grinder Salad if you’re craving something bold and hearty.
- Broccoli Salad: A Crunchy Creamy Classic when you need a picnic-ready crunch.
- Roasted Broccoli and Sweet Potatoes for a cozy, nutrient-packed side.
These recipes bring the same balance of ease and flavor — perfect for weeknights or weekend spreads.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest salad or side dish board so you can find it easily for your next gathering or weekly prep.
And don’t forget to tell me how yours turned out! Did you add grilled veggies? Maybe swap in a different dressing? I’d love to hear your spin on this summery bowl.
Explore beautifully curated health-boosting salads and fresh meal ideas on ChefAlchemy Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next obsession!
Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad
Equipment
- Large pot
- Mixing Bowl
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Whisk or jar with lid
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 package (20 oz) cheese tortellini
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
- 0.25 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 0.25 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 0.25 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- salt, to taste
- black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water. Let cool.
- Prep the veggies: halve tomatoes, slice cucumber and red onion, and tear basil leaves.
- In a bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- In a large bowl, combine tortellini, veggies, and basil. Pour dressing over and toss gently.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. Toss again and adjust seasoning if needed.