Are you looking for a refreshing and delicious twist on traditional pasta salads? Look no further! Creamy tortellini salads are a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of Italy in a light and satisfying dish. With their soft, cheese-filled centers and delicate pasta wrapping, tortellini are a natural fit for creamy dressings and fresh vegetables.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering creamy tortellini salad recipes that will take your taste buds on a journey around the world. From classic Italian flavors to Mediterranean-inspired twists and even spicy buffalo chicken variations, there’s something for everyone in this collection of creamy tortellini salads.
Classic Italian Tortellini Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the flavors of Italy with the simplicity of a cold pasta dish. This classic tortellini salad is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Add the cooked tortellini to the salad bowl and toss to combine with the dressing.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Tortellini Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creamy richness of tortellini with the earthy flavor of spinach, making it a perfect side dish or light lunch. With minimal preparation and cooking time, you can enjoy this satisfying salad in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cheese-filled tortellini
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese.
3. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar.
5. Pour dressing over salad and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including cooking time for tortellini)
Mediterranean Tortellini Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the flavors of olives, feta cheese, and fresh herbs with tender tortellini.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine olives, feta cheese, parsley, and basil.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and vinegar.
4. Pour dressing over the salad mixture and toss to coat.
5. Add cooked tortellini and toss gently to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Tortellini Salad
Brighten up your day with this vibrant and flavorful salad featuring sun-dried tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and tender tortellini. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked tortellini
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese.
3. Drizzle olive oil and white wine vinegar over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Avocado and Tortellini Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creaminess of avocado with the flavorful filling of cheese-filled tortellini, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini (any variety)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tbsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and chopped parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Add the cooked tortellini to the avocado mixture and toss gently.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Pesto Tortellini Salad
A refreshing twist on a classic pasta salad, this Pesto Tortellini Salad combines the creamy richness of pesto with the convenience of store-bought tortellini. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked tortellini
– 1/4 cup homemade or store-bought pesto
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, pesto, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
2. Toss gently to combine and season with salt and pepper as needed.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Caprese Tortellini Salad
A refreshing twist on the classic Caprese salad, this recipe combines fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil with tender tortellini for a light and flavorful summer treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 12-16 cheese-filled tortellini (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil for dressing
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and chopped basil leaves.
3. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil to dress the salad.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on cooking time for tortellini)
Greek Tortellini Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salads, this Greek-inspired dish combines the creaminess of feta cheese with the savory flavor of tortellini and a hint of Mediterranean herbs.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine feta cheese, parsley, dill, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
3. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Balsamic Tortellini Salad
Elevate your pasta salad game with this refreshing and flavorful Balsamic Tortellini Salad, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Add cooked tortellini, parsley, and cherry tomatoes to the bowl; toss to combine.
4. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
5. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Tortellini Salad
This hearty salad combines the flavors of roasted vegetables with creamy tortellini, perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner. A medley of colorful vegetables adds natural sweetness and texture to this easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 package cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 large eggplant, sliced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine roasted vegetables, tortellini, garlic, and chopped parsley (if using). Toss to combine.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caesar Tortellini Salad
Experience the classic combination of creamy Caesar dressing and tender tortellini in this quick and easy salad recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 (9 oz) package cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup croutons
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chopped romaine lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan cheese to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
4. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently.
5. Sprinkle with garlic and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Tortellini Salad
Elevate your salad game with this spicy and satisfying Buffalo Chicken Tortellini Salad! This unique twist on traditional pasta salads combines the creaminess of tortellini with the bold flavors of buffalo chicken.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped celery
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced chicken, Frank’s RedHot sauce, and ranch dressing. Toss until the chicken is fully coated.
3. Add cooked tortellini, blue cheese, celery, and red bell pepper to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on cooking method)
Asian-Inspired Tortellini Salad
Elevate your pasta salad game with this vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the comforting warmth of tortellini with the bold, savory notes of Asian-inspired flavors. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner that’s both satisfying and impressive.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and cilantro)
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup sliced carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, mixed greens, red bell pepper, carrots, and scallions.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Add cooked tortellini to the salad and toss gently.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Artichoke and Tortellini Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of artichokes, tortellini, and fresh herbs to create a delicious and easy-to-make side dish or light lunch. Perfect for spring and summer gatherings!
Ingredients:
– 1 large artichoke, trimmed and quartered
– 8 oz cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the artichoke quarters to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, artichokes, parsley, and basil.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature, with lemon wedges on the side if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon Ranch Tortellini Salad
This creamy, savory salad combines the flavors of crispy bacon, tangy ranch dressing, and cheese-filled tortellini for a satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup of ranch dressing
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, crumbled bacon, and ranch dressing. Toss until well coated.
3. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the salad and toss again to combine.
4. Top with chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli and Tortellini Salad
A refreshing twist on a classic salad, this creamy broccoli and tortellini combination is perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner. With the added crunch of toasted almonds and tanginess of feta cheese, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked tortellini
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup toasted almonds
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add broccoli to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, broccoli mixture, and heavy cream. Toss until well coated.
5. Stir in crumbled feta cheese, salt, and pepper.
6. Sprinkle toasted almonds on top and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zesty Lemon Tortellini Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this Zesty Lemon Tortellini Salad combines the brightness of lemon with the savory goodness of cheese-filled tortellini. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish to complement your favorite entrees.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cooked tortellini.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including cooking tortellini)
Herbed Tortellini Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the flavors of fresh herbs, cherry tomatoes, and creamy goat cheese with tender tortellini.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tbsp. fresh basil, chopped
– 1 tsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, parsley, and basil.
3. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with crumbled goat cheese and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (cooking time for tortellini only)
Cheesy Tortellini Salad
Satisfy your cravings with this rich and satisfying Cheesy Tortellini Salad, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering. This creamy delight combines tender tortellini, crunchy veggies, and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 (9 oz) package cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup crumbled mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and cooked tortellini.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until smooth.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Sprinkle crumbled mozzarella cheese on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Southwestern Tortellini Salad
Southwestern Tortellini Salad Recipe: A Twist on Classic Pasta Salad
This recipe combines the flavors of the Southwest with the comfort of pasta, making it a perfect side dish or light lunch. Fresh vegetables, savory cheese, and a tangy dressing come together to create a deliciously unique salad.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked tortellini
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and black beans.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, and chopped cilantro.
3. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle crumbled cheese over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (not including cooking time for tortellini)
Summary
Get ready to elevate your salad game with these 20 creamy tortellini salad recipes! From classic Italian to bold and zesty, there’s something for everyone. Try adding some Mediterranean flair with olives and feta or go all out with a buffalo chicken twist. For a lighter option, combine avocado and spinach for a fresh and healthy treat. Whether you’re in the mood for something cheesy or herby, these tortellini salads are sure to hit the spot. So grab your favorite pasta and get creative!
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