Description

Looking for a quick, easy dinner idea or a fresh, healthy snack option? This Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad is bursting with flavor and perfect for summer! Packed with juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, creamy mozzarella, and tender cheese tortellini, it’s a perfect fit for picnics, potlucks, or make-ahead lunches. Enjoy this deliciously simple recipe that’s ideal for your favorite dinner ideas or light weekday meals.

Ingredients

1 package cheese tortellini (about 9 oz or 250g)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

1 cup mozzarella, cubed

1/2 cup Italian dressing

2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.

2. While pasta cooks, prepare vegetables: halve the tomatoes, dice the cucumber, slice the red onion, and cube the mozzarella.

3. In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and mozzarella.

4. Drizzle with Italian dressing and gently toss to coat evenly.

5. Add chopped basil or parsley, crushed red pepper flakes if using, and season with salt and pepper.

6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

Rinse the tortellini in cold water right after cooking to stop the cooking process.

For a creamier version, stir in a tablespoon of mayo or Greek yogurt.

Add grilled chicken or chickpeas to boost the protein content.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Boiled
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1.5 cups
Calories: 320
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 520mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 12g
Cholesterol: 30mg