This Cheese Tortellini Caesar Pasta Salad is a fun twist on the classic Caesar salad, packed with cheesy tortellini, crisp romaine lettuce, and plenty of creamy Caesar dressing. It’s a cool, filling dish that has just the right mix of creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors, making it perfect for a picnic, potluck, or easy lunch.
I love making this salad when I want something satisfying but simple to throw together. The tortellini adds a nice, chewy texture that’s a little different from your regular pasta salad, and the cheesy filling brings that extra bit of comfort that everyone enjoys. I usually toss it all with a bit of Parmesan cheese on top for a little extra zing.
My favorite way to serve this salad is straight from the fridge on a warm day, maybe with some grilled chicken or crusty bread on the side. It’s great because it holds up well if you make it a few hours ahead, giving the flavors time to mingle. This salad always gets me excited for easy meals that still feel special and homemade.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cheese Tortellini: This is the star of the salad and brings great texture and flavor. If you can’t find cheese tortellini, spinach or mushroom-filled tortellini also work well. For a lighter option, try whole wheat or gluten-free tortellini.
Romaine Lettuce: Romaine gives the salad its classic crunch. You can swap it for kale or mixed greens if you prefer something a bit more tender or nutrient-packed.
Caesar Dressing: I like using a creamy Caesar dressing with anchovy for authentic flavor. If you need to avoid anchovies or dairy, look for vegan or lighter Caesar dressings or simply make your own with mayo, lemon, garlic, and vegan Worcestershire sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a sharp, salty bite. Pecorino Romano makes a great substitute for an even more intense taste.
Croutons & Bacon Bits: Croutons add crunch, and bacon bits add smoky depth. For a vegetarian version, skip the bacon and add toasted nuts or seeds for crunch instead.
How Do I Keep the Tortellini from Getting Mushy in This Salad?
Keeping tortellini firm is key for a great salad. Here’s how I make sure it stays perfect:
- Cook tortellini just until al dente (follow package timing but test early).
- Drain and rinse under cold water quickly to stop cooking and cool down.
- Drain well to remove excess water, so dressing doesn’t get watery.
- Toss with dressing right before serving rather than letting it sit too long.
This keeps the tortellini chewy and prevents it from soaking up too much dressing or moisture, so your salad stays fresh and delicious.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – For cooking the tortellini until al dente. It’s easy to strain and rinse with cold water afterward.
- Salad bowl – A big enough bowl to toss all your ingredients without spilling, making mixing simple.
- Colander – To drain the cooked tortellini and rinse under cold water.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient portions and dressing.
- Grater – To freshly grate Parmesan cheese, giving the best flavor and texture.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap cheese tortellini for spinach or mushroom-filled; adds different flavors while keeping the cheesy pasta feel.
- Use grilled chicken or shrimp; adds protein and makes it more filling.
- Switch out Caesar dressing for balsamic vinaigrette or Italian dressing for a lighter or different flavor profile.
- Add roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or red onions; they bring extra color and flavor.
Cheese Tortellini Caesar Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (about 9-10 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, sliced
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 cup croutons, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits or pancetta (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. Most of the time is spent cooking and cooling the tortellini. You can toss everything together quickly once the pasta is ready, making this a great option for a fast, tasty meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Boil the cheese tortellini in a large pot of salted water according to the package directions until it is just tender (al dente). Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking. Set the tortellini aside to drain well.
2. Mix the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, sliced cherry tomatoes, cooled tortellini, and chopped croutons. This mix gives a great balance of fresh crunch and tender pasta.
3. Add Dressing and Cheese:
Pour the Caesar dressing over the salad and toss gently but thoroughly to coat all the ingredients. Then, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and add the bacon bits or pancetta if you’re using them. Give it another light toss.
4. Season and Serve:
Season the salad with freshly ground black pepper to your taste. Serve right away, garnished with a bit more Parmesan cheese and pepper if you like. Enjoy your hearty and fresh Caesar pasta salad!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Refrigerated?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to cook the frozen tortellini according to the package instructions, which might take a couple of minutes longer. After cooking, rinse with cold water to cool and drain well before adding to the salad.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The tortellini may absorb dressing and become softer over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a day.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare all ingredients and toss with dressing just before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh. If needed, you can dress it a few hours ahead and refrigerate, but add croutons last minute to keep them crunchy.
What Can I Substitute for Caesar Dressing?
If you want a different flavor or dietary option, ranch, Italian dressing, or a light vinaigrette can work well. Just keep in mind that it will change the classic Caesar flavor profile.
