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Tortellini Pasta Salad

Tortellini Pasta Salad

This no-bake, quick and easy Tortellini Pasta Salad is bursting with sunshine flavors, creamy dressing, and crisp veggies—perfect for potlucks, summer gatherings, or a fuss-free weeknight side.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces cheese tortellini fresh or refrigerated; whole-wheat or gluten-free works great
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved (use rainbow for a festive pop)
  • 1/2 cup cucumber diced (seed if you want less liquid)
  • 1/4 cup red onion finely chopped (soak in cold water if you dislike sharpness)
  • 1/3 cup sliced black olives for briny contrast
  • 2 cups baby spinach or baby arugula arugula makes it peppery—fun twist
  • 3/4 cup plain whole-milk Greek yogurt for extra creaminess
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise light or avocado mayo is fine
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil pick a fruity one you love
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice about half a lemon
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or herbes de Provence
  • 1 clove garlic minced (or 1/2 teaspoon jarred)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add tortellini. Boil for 3–4 minutes or until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water—this stops cooking and keeps pasta from sticking.
  • While pasta cooks, halve tomatoes, dice cucumber, chop onion, and rinse spinach. Pro tip: Dry leafy greens in a salad spinner so they don’t water down the salad.
  • In a medium bowl, stir together Greek yogurt, mayo, olive oil, lemon juice, mustard, honey, Italian seasoning, garlic, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning—you want a balance of tang, herb, and a hint of sweetness.
  • In a large bowl, gently fold tortellini, veggies, and olives into the dressing. Add spinach last—its warmth from the drained pasta will soften leaves just right.
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes. This step lets flavors meld; if you’re pressed for time, 10 minutes still works in a pinch.
  • Give the salad a gentle stir, then taste. Add more salt, pepper, or a splash more lemon juice if it needs brightness.
  • Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley. For a crowd-pleasing finish, top with shaved Parmesan or a handful of toasted pine nuts.
  • Dish out in a pretty bowl or transport in an airtight container to your next gathering.

Notes

Choose good-quality pasta and whole-milk yogurt for the best taste and texture. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can elevate the salad. Drain veggies well to avoid a watery salad.
Keyword Greek Yogurt Dressing, pasta salad, Summer Salad, Tortellini
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