Say hello to your new favorite pasta salad! This Mediterranean Tortellini Salad with Artichokes & Olives is bursting with bold flavors, tender pasta, and tangy bites of marinated veg. It’s the kind of dish that feels fancy but comes together in minutes—perfect for potlucks, picnics, or an easy no-stress dinner that still feels special.

Why You’ll Love This Tortellini Salad

This isn’t just a pasta salad—it’s a flavor-packed Mediterranean getaway in every bite. Creamy cheese tortellini, salty olives, zesty artichokes, and juicy cherry tomatoes all get tossed in a garlicky herb vinaigrette that soaks into every crevice of the pasta. It’s hearty, refreshing, and wildly addictive.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Cook tortellini just until al dente—don’t overboil
• Use marinated artichokes for maximum flavor
• Let the salad chill at least 30 minutes to absorb flavors
• Add dressing in stages so it’s not soggy
• Taste and adjust with lemon juice or salt before serving

Ingredients

For the Salad:

1. 1 (9 oz) package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
2. ½ cup marinated artichoke hearts, chopped
3. ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
4. 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
5. ¼ cup diced red onion
6. ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
7. 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
8. Optional: baby spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers

For the Dressing:

1. ¼ cup olive oil
2. 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
3. 1 tablespoon lemon juice
4. 1 garlic clove, minced
5. ½ teaspoon dried oregano
6. Salt & black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked tortellini, artichokes, olives, cherry tomatoes, red onion, feta, and parsley.
4. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to coat.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning just before serving. Garnish with extra parsley or feta, if desired.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

• Creamy tortellini meets briny olives
• Tangy artichokes balance sweet cherry tomatoes
• Crumbly feta adds a salty kick
• The vinaigrette ties it all together with zesty Mediterranean magic

How to Serve Mediterranean Tortellini Salad

• As a vibrant lunch on its own
• With grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp
• At summer picnics, BBQs, or potlucks
• Packed into meal prep containers
• Over a bed of greens for extra crunch

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Wrap it in a tortilla with spinach for a pasta wrap
• Toss with chickpeas for extra protein
• Add to skewers with mozzarella balls for party bites
• Serve with pita and hummus for a Mediterranean mezze board
• Stuff it into bell peppers and bake for a warm twist

Additional Tips

• Use tricolor tortellini for visual fun
• Swap in goat cheese or mozzarella pearls for variety
• Add chopped cucumbers for crunch
• Make it spicy with a pinch of red pepper flakes
• Store up to 3 days in the fridge (best flavor after Day 1)

Make It a Showstopper (Presentation Ideas)

• Serve in a wide white bowl with a drizzle of extra olive oil
• Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges
• Add colorful olives for a pop of contrast
• Sprinkle extra feta on top just before serving
• Pair with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling lemonade

FAQ’s

1. Can I make this ahead?
   Yes! It tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge.
2. What if I don’t like olives?
   Skip them or sub in capers for a different briny bite.
3. Can I use frozen tortellini?
   Absolutely. Just cook and cool before adding to the salad.
4. How do I keep the tortellini from getting mushy?
   Don’t overcook it—al dente is key!
5. Is this dish vegetarian?
   Yes, just check that your tortellini and feta are rennet-free if needed.
6. What other herbs work here?
   Basil, dill, or mint would be delicious additions.
7. Can I add protein?
   Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas would all work well.
8. Does this travel well?
   Yes—it’s perfect for taking to events or packing for lunch.
9. Can I use a different dressing?
   Sure! A basil pesto or lemon tahini dressing would be lovely too.
10. Is this served cold or warm?
    Best served cold or at room temp—don’t reheat it.

Conclusion

This Mediterranean Tortellini Salad with Artichokes & Olives is everything a pasta salad should be—bright, bold, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re prepping ahead for a busy week or bringing something show-stopping to a potluck, this one’s always a crowd-pleaser.

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