Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad

🥗 Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad

A refreshing and flavorful Mediterranean-style salad packed with cheese-filled tortellini, crisp veggies, tangy feta, and a zesty Greek dressing. Perfect for picnics, lunches, or light dinners!

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🌿 Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 1 (9 oz / 250 g) package cheese tortellini

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 small cucumber, diced

• ½ cup red onion, finely sliced

• ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved

• ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled

• ¼ cup roasted red peppers, chopped (optional)

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing:

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the Tortellini:
   Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

2. Make the Dressing:
   In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.

3. Assemble the Salad:
   In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, roasted peppers, and parsley.

4. Add Feta & Dressing:
   Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently. Add crumbled feta on top.

5. Chill & Serve:
   Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for flavors to blend. Serve cold or at room temperature.

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🍋 Tips

• For a creamier version, add a spoonful of Greek yogurt to the dressing.

• You can substitute spinach or sun-dried tomato tortellini for variety.

• Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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❓ Q&A 

Q1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! This salad tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge as the flavors blend together.

Q2: Can I use frozen tortellini?
A: Absolutely — just cook according to package instructions and cool before mixing.

Q3: What can I use instead of feta cheese?
A: Try goat cheese, mozzarella pearls, or vegan feta alternatives.

Q4: Is this salad served warm or cold?
A: Traditionally it’s served cold or at room temperature — perfect for summer meals.

Q5: Can I add protein?
A: Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make great additions for a heartier salad.