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Tortellini Pasta Salad with Spinach

Colorful tortellini pasta salad with spinach and vegetables in a white bowl.

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This hearty and refreshing salad combines cheesy tortellini with fresh spinach, tomatoes, artichokes, and a zesty homemade Italian dressing. It comes together in minutes and is perfect for a quick lunch, a potluck, or as a side dish for grilled meats.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (20 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
  • 5 ounces fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
  • 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
  • 1/2 cup sliced black olives
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup cubed mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/3 cup red wine vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package directions until al dente, about 3-4 minutes. Drain and rinse briefly under cool water to stop the cooking.
  2. While the pasta cooks, make the dressing. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, chopped spinach, halved tomatoes, artichoke hearts, olives, red onion, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
  4. Pour about 3/4 of the dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated.
  5. Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the spinach to soften. Toss with the remaining dressing just before serving.

Notes

For best results, ensure the tortellini is cooled before mixing. The salad can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free tortellini. Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.

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