Fresh, vibrant, and packed with texture, Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad is the ultimate summer side or light lunch dish. Imagine cheese-filled tortellini tossed with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, sweet bell peppers, and tangy red onions, all wrapped in a zesty Italian dressing. It’s colorful, flavorful, and effortless—everything you want in a pasta salad.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd at a backyard BBQ or meal prepping for busy weekdays, this salad delivers both flavor and convenience. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable. Add grilled chicken, swap in different veggies, or mix up the dressing—there’s no wrong way to enjoy it.

What Kind of Tortellini Should I Use?

Refrigerated cheese tortellini is ideal for this recipe because it cooks quickly and holds up well when chilled. You can also use frozen tortellini, just be sure to cook it al dente to avoid mushiness. If you’re feeling adventurous, try spinach or mushroom-stuffed varieties for extra flavor.

Ingredients for the Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad

Cheese Tortellini: The hearty base of the dish. Its rich filling makes the salad satisfying enough to serve as a meal.
Cherry Tomatoes: Add a pop of sweetness and bright color.
Cucumber: Brings a refreshing crunch.
Red Bell Pepper: Sweet and crisp, it enhances the salad’s texture and color.
Red Onion: Offers a sharp bite that balances the richness of the tortellini.
Italian Dressing: This coats everything with tangy, herby flavor. Use your favorite bottled version or make it from scratch.
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of salty goodness to finish things off.

How To Make the Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the cheese tortellini according to the package directions. Be careful not to overcook—you want them firm enough to hold their shape. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool quickly and prevent sticking.

Step 2: Chop the Vegetables

While the pasta is cooking, dice the cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion. Halve the cherry tomatoes. Try to keep the veggie pieces bite-sized for easy eating.

Step 3: Toss Everything Together

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, chopped vegetables, and halved tomatoes. Drizzle with Italian dressing and toss gently to coat every piece.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Just before serving, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for that savory finishing touch.

Serving and Storing Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, making it perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, and busy lunches. Once prepared, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’re adding proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp, add them fresh before serving to maintain texture and flavor.

What to Serve With Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad?

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken

Its citrusy notes and charred edges perfectly balance the creamy tortellini.

Garlic Breadsticks

Warm, buttery breadsticks are always a win with any pasta-based dish.

Classic Deviled Eggs

Light and protein-packed, they complement the salad without overpowering it.

Fresh Fruit Skewers

A mix of melon, berries, and grapes adds a refreshing contrast.

Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes

For a hearty twist, pair it with these herb-infused sweet potato wedges.

Iced Tea or Lemonade

Complete your meal with a chilled glass of your favorite summer sip.

Want More Pasta Salad Ideas?

If you love this Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad, here are some other satisfying sides and mains you might enjoy:

California Spaghetti Salad for a zesty, veggie-packed alternative.
Creamy Cranberry Salad if you’re craving something fruity and creamy.
Cheeseburger Soup for a comforting, protein-rich companion.
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan for a hearty weeknight dinner.
Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes to add an earthy side with crisp edges.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this fresh and easy pasta salad to your favorite Pinterest board, so it’s ready for your next sunny day gathering.

Tried it with your own twist? Maybe swapped the dressing or added a protein? Share your ideas in the comments below!

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. You might find your next favorite there.

Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 20
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Bring color and bold flavors to your table with this Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad—a fresh, zesty twist on classic pasta salads! Packed with cheese-filled tortellini, crisp cucumbers, sweet bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and red onion, all tossed in a tangy Italian dressing, it’s the ultimate dish for a quick lunch, summer barbecue, or healthy snack. Whether you need easy dinner ideas or something light for meal prep, this dish checks all the boxes. A refreshing favorite that’s easy to love and easier to make.

Ingredients

12 ounces cheese tortellini

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1 cup red bell pepper, diced

1/3 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/2 cup Italian dressing

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.

2. While tortellini cooks, chop cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion. Halve the cherry tomatoes.

3. In a large bowl, combine cooled tortellini with chopped vegetables and tomatoes.

4. Drizzle Italian dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

6. Just before serving, top with grated Parmesan cheese and enjoy.