Tuscan Tortellini Pasta Salad

 

Tuscan Tortellini Pasta Salad: A Fresh, Flavor-Packed Dish You’ll Want to Make Again and Again

If you’re looking for a dish that’s colorful, satisfying, and bursting with Mediterranean flavor, Tuscan Tortellini Pasta Salad is the perfect recipe to add to your rotation. Combining tender, cheese-filled tortellini with sun-soaked Tuscan ingredients, this salad is hearty enough to be a meal yet refreshing enough for warm weather gatherings.

Whether you’re prepping for a picnic, a potluck, or a simple weeknight dinner, this pasta salad delivers bold flavors with minimal effort—and trust us, every bite tastes like a trip to Italy.

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What Makes Tuscan Tortellini Pasta Salad Special?

This dish has the best of both worlds:
comforting pasta + vibrant Italian flavors.

What sets it apart?

✔ Tortellini Instead of Traditional Pasta

Cheese-stuffed tortellini adds richness and elevates the dish above typical pasta salads.

✔ Tuscan-Inspired Ingredients

Think olives, sundried tomatoes, roasted peppers, artichoke hearts, and fresh basil—all mixed into one irresistible bowl.

✔ A Zesty Dressing

A simple blend of olive oil, vinegar, and herbs ties everything together with bright, Tuscan charm.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a classic ingredient list for a flavorful Tuscan Tortellini Pasta Salad:

For the Salad

• 1 (20–24 oz) package cheese tortellini

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• ½ cup sundried tomatoes, chopped

• 1 cup baby spinach or arugula

• ½ cup black or Kalamata olives

• ½ cup marinated artichoke hearts

• ½ cup roasted red peppers, sliced

• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced

• Fresh basil leaves

• Optional: mini mozzarella balls or shaved Parmesan

For the Dressing

• ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil

• ¼ cup red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness

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How to Make It

1. Cook the Tortellini

Boil the tortellini according to package instructions until just tender.
Drain and rinse with cold water to cool the pasta and prevent sticking.

2. Prep the Veggies

Chop, slice, and prepare all the Tuscan-style ingredients.
The more color, the better!

3. Make the Dressing

Whisk together olive oil, vinegar, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper.
Taste and adjust until perfectly tangy and balanced.

4. Combine Everything

Add the cooled tortellini to a large bowl, then fold in the veggies and extras.
Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently until coated.

5. Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Garnish with fresh basil or cheese before serving.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s incredibly versatile—serve it warm, chilled, or at room temperature.

• It travels well, making it ideal for potlucks, parties, or lunch prepping.

• It’s customizable—add grilled chicken, salami, chickpeas, or extra veggies.

• It tastes even better the next day, once the dressing soaks into the tortellini.

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Variations to Try

Mediterranean Twist

Add cucumbers, feta, and lemon for a Greek-inspired flavor.

Protein Boost

Mix in rotisserie chicken, Italian sausage, or prosciutto.

Creamy Version

Stir in a spoonful of pesto or a dollop of creamy Italian dressing.

Veggie-Loaded

Increase spinach, add roasted zucchini, or toss in avocado.

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Perfect Occasions for Tuscan Tortellini Pasta Salad

This dish shines at:

• Summer barbecues

• Family gatherings

• Meal prep lunches

• Picnics and potlucks

• Quick weeknight dinners

It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels gourmet but takes minimal effort—a true win-win.

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Final Thoughts

Tuscan Tortellini Pasta Salad is the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. It’s colorful, flavorful, refreshing, and comforting all at once. With just a few simple ingredients and a burst of Mediterranean flair, this dish brings sunshine to any table.