I’m so excited to share this delicious Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad recipe with you! Not only is it colorful and vibrant, but it also brings back sweet memories of picnics with friends and family on those warm summer days. There’s something about the combination of fresh vegetables and the briny goodness of Kalamata olives that makes this salad irresistible! What really seals the deal is the creamy feta—it just screams Mediterranean delight.
Now, this isn’t just any ordinary pasta salad. This dish strikes that perfect balance between comfort and freshness, making it an ideal side or even a light main dish. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe, so whether you’re entertaining guests or just looking for a quick meal, you’ve got a winner! Let’s dive in!
What’s in Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad?
– Cheese Tortellini: This is the star of our salad! I typically use fresh tortellini, which has a delightful texture, but frozen will work just as well. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for cooking.
– Cherry Tomatoes: These sweet little gems add a pop of color and juiciness. Halving them allows their natural sweetness to shine through, creating a lovely balance against the salty feta.
– Cucumber: Cool and crunchy, diced cucumber adds freshness and a nice texture. I usually prefer English cucumbers since they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin.
– Kalamata Olives: Their rich, briny flavor is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine. Make sure to pit and halve them for easy eating.
– Feta Cheese: Ah, feta—the creamy, crumbly cheese that ties all the flavors together! Opt for a good quality feta (I love the kind packed in brine).
– Red Onion: A little kick from the finely chopped red onion gives the salad an added depth. If you’re sensitive to raw onion, a quick soak in water can help mellow its taste.
– Fresh Parsley: This optional garnish adds a bright, herbal notes and looks pretty on the plate!
– Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil is key for creating a tasty dressing. It adds a smooth richness.
– Red Wine Vinegar: It gives the dressing a nice tang that complements the creamy feta and bright veggies.
– Dried Oregano: A classic herb in Greek cuisine, adding depth to our dressing.
– Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that help bring the flavors to life!
Is Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad Good for You?
Absolutely! This Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad offers a wonderful balance of nutrients.
– Cheese Tortellini: Packed with carbs for energy and some protein, it’s satisfying while still being light.
– Cherry Tomatoes: These are a fantastic source of vitamins C and K, plus antioxidants that are great for your skin.
– Cucumber: Low in calories and high in water, cucumbers help keep you hydrated!
– Kalamata Olives: Rich in healthy fats, olives contain antioxidants and can promote heart health.
– Feta Cheese: Feta, being lower in fat than other cheeses, still delivers a good dose of calcium and flavor.
– Fresh Vegetables: More veggies mean more vitamins, minerals, and fiber—essential for a balanced diet!
However, if you’re watching your sodium intake, it’s wise to be mindful of the feta and olives since they can be quite salty.
Ingredients for Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad
– 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
– 1/3 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
(Serves 4-6)
How to Make Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad?
1. Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to cool them down.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, Kalamata olives, finely chopped red onion, and crumbled feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the pasta salad and gently toss to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
6. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley. Serve right away or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to let those flavors meld beautifully together. Enjoy!
Colorful Variations and Serving Suggestions
– If you’ve got some bell peppers lying around, feel free to toss in some diced red or yellow ones for extra crunch and color.
– To make it heartier, add some grilled chicken or chickpeas for an added protein boost.
– Serve this salad alongside grilled meats or as part of a mezze platter for a fantastic Mediterranean feast!
I can’t wait for you to try this Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad. Trust me—once you taste it, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite in my kitchen! Share your experience with me, and let’s keep swapping healthy, tasty recipes that make cooking a joy!
