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Easy Creamy Tortellini Pasta Salad Recipe with Fresh Herbs for Summer

creamy tortellini pasta salad - featured image
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A quick and easy creamy tortellini pasta salad featuring fresh herbs and a tangy dressing, perfect for summer gatherings and busy days.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz (340 g) fresh or refrigerated cheese tortellini
  • ⅓ cup (80 ml) mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • ¼ cup (25 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: ½ cup halved cherry tomatoes
  • Optional: thinly sliced cucumbers

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz (340 g) cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes for fresh tortellini. Cook until tender but still holding shape.
  2. Drain the tortellini in a colander and rinse under cool water to stop the cooking process and cool them down for the salad. Set aside to drain well for 5 minutes.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together ⅓ cup (80 ml) mayonnaise, ¼ cup (60 ml) sour cream, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon olive oil, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth and creamy.
  4. Finely chop 2 tablespoons each of fresh basil, parsley, and chives. If using cherry tomatoes or cucumbers, slice them thinly now.
  5. Add the drained tortellini, chopped herbs, and optional veggies to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat each piece evenly.
  6. Sprinkle ¼ cup (25 g) grated Parmesan over the salad and fold in gently to combine.
  7. Taste and add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
  8. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld and the salad firm up.

Notes

Use fresh herbs for best flavor. Rinse tortellini under cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking. Fold dressing gently to avoid breaking tortellini. Salad tastes better after chilling at least 30 minutes. For dairy-free or vegan versions, substitute mayo and sour cream with vegan alternatives and Parmesan with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese. Gluten-free tortellini can be used to make the salad gluten-free.

Nutrition

Keywords: tortellini pasta salad, creamy pasta salad, summer salad, fresh herbs, easy pasta salad, quick side dish

Find it online: https://larameals.com/easy-creamy-tortellini-pasta-salad-recipe-with-fresh-herbs-for-summer/