Are you tired of the same old salads and looking for something new and exciting to add to your lunch or dinner routine? Look no further! Tortellini, those delicious stuffed pasta rings, can be a great addition to any salad. When combined with creamy dressings and flavorful ingredients, tortellini can elevate a simple green salad into a mouthwatering meal.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 different creamy tortellini salad recipes that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. From classic Italian-inspired salads to international twists and unique flavor combinations, there’s something for everyone in this collection of easy and flavorful recipes. Whether you’re a pasta lover or just looking for new ideas to spice up your mealtime routine, these 20 creamy tortellini salad recipes are sure to please.
Classic Italian Tortellini Salad with Pesto Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Italy’s favorite pasta dish with a creamy pesto dressing, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup sliced red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pesto dressing (homemade or store-bought)
– 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, red onion, parsley, and feta cheese.
3. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Drizzle pesto dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (cooking tortellini)
Easy Spinach and Tortellini Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
A refreshing and flavorful salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this easy-to-make recipe combines the best of Italian cuisine with the brightness of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tbsp. olive oil
– 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 (if using).
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
4. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl with the spinach mixture.
5. Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the top and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (cooking tortellini)
Creamy Avocado Tortellini Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
This refreshing salad combines the creaminess of avocado with the delicate taste of tortellini and sweet cherry tomatoes, perfect for a light yet satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 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 diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and chopped parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Pour the dressing over the avocado mixture and toss gently.
5. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss again to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Greek Tortellini Salad with Feta and Olives
A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this Quick Greek Tortellini Salad combines the creamy richness of feta cheese with the brininess of olives and the simplicity of store-bought tortellini.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup store-bought cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine feta cheese, olives, red onion, and cooked tortellini.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar; season with salt and pepper.
4. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Tortellini Salad with Roasted Vegetables
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and nutritious salad, featuring roasted vegetables and a tangy balsamic glaze. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a show-stopping side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a small saucepan, heat the balsamic glaze over medium heat.
4. Combine the roasted vegetables, cooked tortellini, and balsamic glaze in a large bowl. Toss to coat.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Simple Caprese Tortellini Salad with Fresh Mozzarella
This refreshing salad combines the classic flavors of Italy with the ease of a simple recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fresh cheese tortellini
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
– 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 tomato and sliced mozzarella.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the top of the salad and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the cooked tortellini to the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Top with chopped basil leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Salad with Arugula
This Italian-inspired salad combines the rich flavors of garlic parmesan tortellini with peppery arugula, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. garlic parmesan tortellini
– 4 cups fresh arugula
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup shaved parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine arugula, cherry tomatoes, and shaved parmesan cheese.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and sprinkle with garlic powder.
4. Toss cooked tortellini with the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Ranch Tortellini Salad with Bacon and Peas
Easy Ranch Tortellini Salad with Bacon and Peas
A creamy and satisfying salad that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 tbsp. ranch seasoning
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup 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 bacon, peas, ranch seasoning, and mayonnaise. Mix well until combined.
3. Add the cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss to coat with the dressing.
4. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Tortellini Salad with Basil Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this vibrant and flavorful combination of sun-dried tomatoes, creamy basil dressing, and cheese-filled tortellini.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the basil dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients; toss to combine.
5. Add cooked tortellini to the salad; toss gently to combine.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Light Lemon Garlic Tortellini Salad with Asparagus
Light Lemon Garlic Tortellini Salad with Asparagus: A refreshing and flavorful salad that’s perfect for spring and summer gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange asparagus in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with minced garlic, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice and a pinch of salt.
5. Add cooked tortellini, roasted asparagus, and grated Parmesan cheese (if using) to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Mediterranean Tortellini Salad with Artichokes
Looking for a light and refreshing salad that combines the flavors of the Mediterranean? This recipe is perfect for warm weather, as it’s quick to prepare and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tortellini (cheese-filled)
– 1 can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine artichoke hearts, cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar; season with salt and pepper.
4. Add cooked tortellini to the salad bowl; pour dressing over top.
5. Toss gently to combine; garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Creamy Pesto Tortellini Salad with Pine Nuts
Elevate your pasta salad game with this creamy and flavorful dish featuring tender tortellini, crunchy pine nuts, and a tangy pesto sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine pesto sauce and heavy cream. Mix well until smooth.
3. Add Parmesan cheese and diced chicken breast to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
4. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss until well coated with the creamy mixture.
5. Sprinkle toasted pine nuts on top of the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Quick Antipasto Tortellini Salad with Salami
This easy-to-make salad combines the flavors of Italy with the convenience of a quick lunch or dinner. Creamy tortellini, savory salami, and crunchy vegetables come together in a satisfying bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 package (9 oz) cheese-filled tortellini
– 6 slices salami, thinly sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon 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 cooked tortellini, salami, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and parsley.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and white wine vinegar; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Easy Caesar Tortellini Salad with Croutons
A delicious and satisfying salad that combines the creaminess of Caesar dressing with the comfort of tortellini, all topped off with crunchy croutons. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1/4 cup crumbled Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens and Caesar dressing. Toss until the greens are evenly coated.
3. Add the cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese and croutons over the top of the salad.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Refreshing Cucumber Tortellini Salad with Dill
Beat the summer heat with this light and zesty salad, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad combines the cooling flavors of cucumber and dill with tender tortellini.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, chopped dill, olive oil, and white wine vinegar. Mix well.
3. Add the cooked tortellini to the cucumber mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, crumble feta cheese on top.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Roasted Red Pepper Tortellini Salad
This salad combines the sweet flavor of roasted red peppers with creamy tortellini and fresh greens, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast red bell peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine roasted red pepper flesh, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Add cooked tortellini and mixed greens to the bowl; toss gently.
6. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Easy Buffalo Chicken Tortellini Salad
Easy Buffalo Chicken Tortellini Salad: A flavorful twist on traditional pasta salads, this recipe combines tender tortellini with spicy buffalo chicken and a tangy dressing for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot)
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped celery
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, buffalo wing sauce, and ranch dressing. Mix well until the chicken is fully coated.
3. Add the cooked tortellini, blue cheese, and celery to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (not including cooking time for tortellini)
Creamy Sunflower Seed Tortellini Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creaminess of a homemade dressing with the nutty flavor of sunflower seeds and the simplicity of store-bought tortellini. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/2 cup creamy sunflower seed butter (or regular peanut butter)
– 2 tbsp. plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tsp. lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup toasted sunflower seeds
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sunflower seed butter, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss until coated with the dressing.
4. Stir in chopped parsley and toasted sunflower seeds.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (includes cooking time)
Quick BLT Tortellini Salad with Ranch Dressing
Elevate your lunch game with this creamy and crunchy salad that combines the classic flavors of a BLT sandwich with the convenience of tortellini.
Ingredients:
– 1 package cheese-filled tortellini
– 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1/4 cup 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, diced tomatoes, and chopped parsley.
3. Drizzle the ranch dressing over the top of the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Easy Zesty Lemon Tortellini Salad with Shrimp
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of lemon, garlic, and herbs with tender shrimp and cheese-filled tortellini. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 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 skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, shrimp, lemon juice, and parsley. Toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 creamy and flavorful tortellini salad recipes that are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. From classic Italian to Mediterranean-inspired, these salads combine tender tortellini with a variety of ingredients like pesto, feta, olives, roasted vegetables, and more. With dressings ranging from lemon vinaigrette to creamy ranch, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping side dish, these recipes are sure to impress. Get ready to elevate your salad game with this collection of delicious and easy-to-make tortellini salads!
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