Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad: A Fresh Mediterranean Twist on a Classic

Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad is a refreshing, colorful dish that combines the hearty comfort of pasta with the bold, zesty flavors of the Mediterranean. Imagine tender cheese tortellini tossed with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and tangy feta cheese—all brought together by a bright, homemade Greek vinaigrette. It’s light yet satisfying, making it perfect for picnics, potlucks, or easy weeknight dinners. I made this salad on a warm summer evening and was amazed by how quickly it disappeared from the table. The tortellini adds a fun, cheesy twist that turns a simple side dish into a complete meal. Whether you serve it chilled or at room temperature, this vibrant salad brings sunshine to your plate every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad is the ultimate fusion of comfort and freshness. The tortellini provides hearty satisfaction, while the crisp vegetables and zesty dressing keep it light and flavorful. It’s a versatile dish that works beautifully as a side or main course, and it comes together in just minutes. Plus, it’s easily customizable to suit your taste—perfect for summer gatherings or healthy meal prep.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cheese tortellini – The star of the dish, bringing a rich, cheesy bite that pairs perfectly with the tangy Greek dressing.

Cherry tomatoes – Add a burst of sweetness and color to every bite.

Cucumber – Provides refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the tortellini.

Red onion – Offers a sharp, tangy contrast that enhances the Mediterranean flavor profile.

Kalamata olives – Add saltiness and depth, giving the salad its signature Greek touch.

Feta cheese – Crumbled feta adds creaminess and tang that ties all the flavors together.

Bell pepper – Brings color, sweetness, and crunch. Red or yellow peppers work beautifully here.

Fresh parsley – Adds brightness and a hint of herbal freshness to the salad.

Olive oil – Forms the base of the Greek dressing, adding smooth richness and flavor.

Red wine vinegar – Gives the dressing its tangy bite and balances the richness of the oil and cheese.

Garlic – Adds warmth and aroma to the dressing.

Dried oregano – A staple Greek herb that infuses the salad with authentic Mediterranean flavor.

Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning and balance.

Directions

1. Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, olives, and feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper until emulsified.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables, then toss gently to coat everything evenly.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
6. Chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.

Equipment needed :

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving, as the dressing may settle at the bottom. This salad is best served cold or at room temperature—no reheating needed.

Variations and Customizations

Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a more filling meal.

Vegan Option: Skip the feta cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.

Creamy Greek Style: Mix in a spoonful of Greek yogurt to the dressing for a creamy texture.

Spicy Mediterranean: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil.

Lemon Lover’s Dream: Replace some of the vinegar with fresh lemon juice for extra brightness.

Herb Upgrade: Add fresh basil, mint, or dill for even more aromatic depth.

Colorful Mix: Use a combination of red, orange, and yellow bell peppers for a vibrant presentation.

Pesto Fusion: Stir in a spoonful of basil pesto for a richer, herbaceous flavor.

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free tortellini or pasta to make it suitable for all diets.

Make-Ahead Favorite: Prepare the salad a few hours ahead and refrigerate—it gets even better as it sits.

FAQs

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, it actually tastes better after a few hours as the flavors develop.

What type of tortellini works best?

Cheese tortellini pairs perfectly, but spinach or meat-filled versions also work.

Can I use store-bought dressing?

Yes, but homemade Greek dressing gives the freshest, most authentic flavor.

Can I serve it warm?

You can, but it’s traditionally served chilled or at room temperature.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

Goat cheese or crumbled queso fresco are great substitutes.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Add artichoke hearts, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for variety.

How do I keep the tortellini from getting mushy?

Cook it al dente and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes—it stores well and is ideal for lunchboxes or make-ahead dinners.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free tortellini or pasta.

How do I make it more filling?

Add a protein like grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp to make it a complete meal.

Conclusion

Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad brings together the best of both worlds—comforting pasta and vibrant Mediterranean flavors. It’s fresh, hearty, and absolutely bursting with color and taste. I’ve served this at potlucks, picnics, and even as a quick weekday meal, and it’s always a hit. The tortellini adds richness, while the tangy dressing and crisp vegetables keep it bright and lively. Once you make this easy, flavorful salad, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again for every season and occasion.

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