Description
For the Salad:
12 oz cheese tortellini, cooked and cooled
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup cucumber, diced
½ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
¼ cup roasted red peppers, chopped
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
¼ cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, feta cheese, red onion, roasted red peppers, and parsley.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 380 kcal per serving
Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 oz of cheese tortellini and cook according to package directions, usually 3-5 minutes for fresh or 7-10 for dried. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool completely.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta cools, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, thinly slice the red onion and Kalamata olives, and chop the roasted red peppers and fresh parsley. Crumble the feta cheese.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, ½ teaspoon each of dried oregano and garlic powder, and ¼ teaspoon each of salt and black pepper. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is well emulsified.
4. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, all prepared vegetables, olives, feta, and parsley.
5. Combine and Chill: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. For best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad is perfect as a light main course for lunch or a substantial side dish. For a complete meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken, shrimp, or lemon-herb salmon. It’s an excellent choice for picnics and potlucks—transport it in a sealed container and keep it cool. For presentation, garnish with extra crumbled feta and a sprig of fresh parsley or basil.
How-to Summary
Quickly cook and cool cheese tortellini. Chop fresh veggies like tomatoes, cucumber, and onion. Whisk a simple Greek-inspired vinaigrette from olive oil, red wine vinegar, and herbs. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl, toss with the dressing, and chill briefly to let the flavors blend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble it up to a day in advance. For best texture, add the dressing 1-2 hours before serving and store it in the refrigerator.
What can I use instead of Kalamata olives? Black olives or green Castelvetrano olives make good substitutes, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
Is there a substitute for red wine vinegar? Fresh lemon juice or white wine vinegar are excellent alternatives that will still provide the necessary acidity.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian? Ensure the tortellini and feta cheese you purchase are made with vegetarian rennet.
Can I add protein to this salad? Absolutely. Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or canned tuna are great additions to make the salad more filling.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Warm Tortellini: Adding warm pasta will wilt the vegetables and melt the feta. Always cool it completely.
- Skipping the Chill Time: Not letting the salad rest for 30 minutes prevents the flavors from properly melding.
- Over-dressing: Start with ¾ of the dressing, toss, and add more only if needed to avoid a soggy salad.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Since this is a simple salad, the quality of your olive oil, feta, and vinegar makes a significant difference.
Conclusion
This Tortellini Greek Salad is a effortless, flavorful dish that combines the heartiness of pasta with the bright, fresh tastes of a classic Greek salad. Perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining, its make-ahead flexibility and simple steps guarantee a delicious result every time. Enjoy this crowd-pleasing recipe that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table in just 20 minutes.
