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Cheese Tortellini Caesar Pasta Salad

Cheese Tortellini Caesar Pasta Salad


  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian (can be made gluten-free with suitable ingredients)

Description

This Cheese Tortellini Caesar Pasta Salad combines tender cheese-filled tortellini with crisp romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, crunchy croutons, and a creamy Caesar dressing. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a fresh, creamy, and satisfying dish perfect for quick weeknight meals, potlucks, or easy lunches that everyone will love.


Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Salad Base

  • 12 oz cheese-filled tortellini (fresh or frozen)
  • 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup croutons

Dressing and Toppings

  • 1/2 cup creamy Caesar dressing
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the cheese tortellini. Cook according to package instructions, usually 3-5 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse with cool water to stop cooking and keep the pasta tender.
  2. Prepare the Romaine and Veggies: While the tortellini cooks, wash and chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and set them aside.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled tortellini with romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and croutons to evenly distribute the ingredients.
  4. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the creamy Caesar dressing over the salad and toss gently until well coated. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese and ground black pepper on top, then add a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or individual plates. Optionally garnish with extra Parmesan or croutons, then serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook tortellini to maintain a firm texture.
  • Use fresh romaine lettuce for a crisp crunch.
  • Add Caesar dressing just before serving to avoid sogginess.
  • Chill tortellini and vegetables beforehand for a refreshing salad.
  • Homemade Caesar dressing enhances flavor and lets you control ingredients.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Cholesterol: 25 mg

Keywords: tortellini salad, Caesar pasta salad, cheese tortellini, easy pasta salad, vegetarian pasta salad, meal prep pasta salad