Summer gatherings call for refreshing and flavorful dishes that are easy to prepare and sure to impress. One such dish that perfectly fits the bill is the delightful Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad. Packed with colorful veggies, tangy feta cheese, and tender tortellini, this salad is a delicious twist on the classic Greek salad. It’s a great option for picnics, potlucks, or simply as a side dish for a weeknight dinner. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a mouthwatering Mediterranean-inspired dish that everyone will love.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound cheese tortellini
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
– 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
**Dressing:**
– 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and black pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow the tortellini to cool completely.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and fresh parsley. Toss gently to mix everything together evenly.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the tortellini and vegetable mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together until well coated with the dressing.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Before serving, give the salad a quick toss to redistribute the dressing. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed with more salt and pepper.
7. Serve the Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad chilled, garnished with extra parsley and feta cheese if desired. Enjoy this delicious and colorful dish with your family and friends!
Creating a fresh and flavorful dish like Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad is a great way to elevate your summer dining experience. With its vibrant colors and Mediterranean flavors, this salad is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for a convenient meal prep option, this recipe is a fantastic choice. The combination of tender tortellini, crisp veggies, and zesty dressing makes for a well-rounded and satisfying dish that is sure to be a hit. Prepare a bowl of this delicious pasta salad and transport yourself to the shores of Greece with every delicious bite. Enjoy!
