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Cheese Tortellini Pasta Salad

Cheese Tortellini Pasta Salad: Fresh, Flavorful, and Fast!

Enjoy this quick and easy Cheese Tortellini Pasta Salad packed with fresh flavors of asparagus and peas.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 bunch Asparagus Adds freshness and crunch; use green beans for a similar texture.
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas Provides sweetness and color; fresh peas can also be used if in season.
  • 9 ounces Cheese Tortellini The main structure, delivering substance and creaminess; opt for fresh, frozen, or dried varieties based on availability.
  • 1 can Canned Artichoke Hearts Contributes a tangy flavor; marinated artichokes can add a different flavor profile.
  • 1 bunch Fresh Basil Infuses aromatic and herbal notes; substitute with parsley or spinach if desired.
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Adds richness to the dressing; replace with avocado oil for a different flavor.
  • 1/3 cup Fresh Grated Parmesan Cheese Enhances umami flavor and creaminess; nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free option.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest Provides acidity and brightness; lime can create an interesting twist.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Provides acidity and brightness; lime can create an interesting twist.
  • 1 clove Minced Garlic Adds depth and spice; garlic powder can be used if fresh is unavailable.
  • 1 tablespoon Honey Balances acidity with sweetness; consider using maple syrup for a vegan alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard Acts as an emulsifier and adds sharp flavor; whole grain mustard provides a different texture.
  • 1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar Contributes acidity; red wine vinegar can be an excellent substitute.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • colander
  • ice bath

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot, fill with water and bring it to a vigorous boil over high heat. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the pasta's flavor. Prepare a secondary pot with ice water to cool the vegetables later.
  2. While waiting for the water to boil, add chopped asparagus and frozen peas to the second pot of boiling water. Cook for 4 minutes, then transfer to the ice bath.
  3. Add the cheese tortellini to the boiling water. Cook according to package instructions, typically around 3-5 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, drained asparagus, peas, and canned artichoke hearts. Gently fold them together.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, parmesan cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until emulsified.
  6. Drizzle the dressing over the tortellini and vegetable mixture, then gently toss everything together. Let sit for 5-10 minutes at room temperature.
  7. Serve the Cheese Tortellini Pasta Salad cold and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 12gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 8mg

Notes

Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes after chilling to help meld the flavors beautifully.

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