Zesty Greek Tortellini Salad Recipe
A vibrant and refreshing Zesty Greek Tortellini Salad combining tender cheese tortellini with crisp cucumber, juicy grape tomatoes, tangy Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a zesty red wine vinaigrette with garlic and oregano. Perfect as a light lunch or a flavorful side dish.
- Author: Sana
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Vegetarian
Salad Ingredients
- 1/2 red onion (thinly sliced or finely diced, to personal preference)
- 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 large cucumber (diced into 1/2-inch pieces)
- 1 cup pitted Kalamata olives (halved lengthwise)
- 1 1/2 cups grape tomatoes
- 1 (20 oz) package cheese tortellini
Dressing Ingredients
- 1 garlic clove (minced or grated)
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Kosher salt to taste
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Black pepper to taste (freshly ground)
- Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until tender. Drain the tortellini and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
- Prepare the Salad Ingredients: To the cooled tortellini, add the sliced grape tomatoes, diced cucumber, halved Kalamata olives, chopped red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. Mix gently to combine all salad ingredients evenly.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together minced garlic, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and extra virgin olive oil until the dressing is well emulsified and flavorful.
- Dress and Finish the Salad: Pour the dressing over the tortellini and vegetable mixture. Toss thoroughly to ensure the salad is evenly coated with the dressing and all flavors are well blended. Serve immediately for best freshness.
- Storage and Serving Tips: If not serving right away, cover and refrigerate the salad. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, give it a quick toss to redistribute dressing.
Notes
- To enhance the flavor, use freshly minced garlic and freshly ground black pepper.
- Chilling the salad for 30 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld.
- You can substitute cheese tortellini with spinach or mushroom tortellini for variety.
- Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra freshness if desired.
- This salad is best enjoyed within 3 days for optimal taste and texture.
Keywords: Greek salad, tortellini salad, cheese tortellini, feta cheese salad, Mediterranean salad, easy pasta salad, vegetarian salad