Delicious Spinach and Tortellini Salad for Easy Dining Nights

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team

As the vibrant hues of summer peak and my garden overflows with ripe tomatoes, I can t resist the urge to whip up something fresh and delightful. This Spinach and Tortellini Salad has become my go-to dish for light lunches and backyard gatherings, offering a refreshing burst of flavor that dances on your palate. The delightful combination of cheese-filled tortellini, glossy cherry tomatoes, and earthy spinach makes for a colorful platter that not only pleases the eye but nourishes the soul.

Fortunately, it s also a breeze to prepare! With minimal prep and vibrant ingredients that do the heavy lifting, this salad is perfect for those busy weeknights when you re eager to step away from takeout. I love how tossing everything together in one big bowl creates a spectacular dish that looks as if you ve spent hours preparing it. Whether you re serving it at a picnic or as a light dinner, this Spinach and Tortellini Salad is bound to impress! Let s dive into the easy steps to make this crowd-pleaser.

Why is Spinach and Tortellini Salad a Must-Try?

Vibrant Colors: This salad is a feast for the eyes, with bright cherry tomatoes, vivid spinach, and creamy tortellini.

Quick Preparation: Perfect for busy weeknights, you can have this dish ready in no time.

Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it at gatherings, and watch as your guests rave about the delicious flavors!

Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with nutrient-rich spinach and wholesome ingredients, it s a dish you can feel good about.

Versatile Option: Ideal as a light dinner or as a side for barbecues, it seamlessly fits into any occasion.

This Spinach and Tortellini Salad is not just easy to make but also a delicious way to step away from the mundane. Why not check out some other delightful options like my Mediterranean Chickpea Salad for more inspiration?

Spinach and Tortellini Salad Ingredients

For the Salad

• 9 oz. package cheese-filled tortellini Provides a creamy texture and hearty base for the salad.
• 10 oz. package frozen, chopped spinach Offers a nutritious boost and vibrant green color when thawed and drained.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds a rich, savory flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes Halved for a pop of sweetness and an appealing appearance in the salad.
• 2 oz. can sliced black olives Introduces a subtle brininess, complementing the other flavors beautifully.
• 1 cup Italian dressing Ties all the ingredients together with zesty goodness and moisture.
• Salt and pepper to taste Essential for seasoning, allowing you to customize the flavors to your liking.

This Spinach and Tortellini Salad offers a refreshing and wholesome choice for any meal!

How to Make Spinach and Tortellini Salad

1. Cook the Tortellini: Begin by boiling water in a large pot and adding your cheese-filled tortellini. Cook according to package directions until tender, then rinse under cold water to cool. Drain well.

2. Combine the Ingredients: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, thawed and drained spinach, grated Parmesan cheese, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced black olives.

3. Dress the Salad: Pour in the Italian dressing, sprinkling salt and pepper to taste. Gently toss everything together until all ingredients are well combined and coated in dressing.

4. Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Serve chilled for a refreshing meal!

Optional: Garnish with extra Parmesan for an added touch of richness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Spinach and Tortellini Salad?

Pairing this vibrant salad with complementary sides and drinks can transform it into a full dining experience that delights all the senses.

• Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread adds a satisfying crunch and pairs perfectly with the salad s creamy tortellini.

• Caprese Skewers: These fresh and colorful skewers of mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes enhance the meal with their bright flavors and delightful presentation.

• Grilled Chicken Strips: Tender, marinated chicken adds a hearty protein component that makes this meal even more filling and fulfilling.

• Zucchini Noodles: For a light and refreshing twist, spiralized zucchini brings an extra crunch and complements the flavors of the spinach and tortellini salad without overwhelming it.

• Lemonade or Iced Tea: A chilled drink brings a refreshing balance to the meal, with lemonade offering sweet and tart notes while iced tea can be brewed to your preferred strength.

• Italian Biscotti: For a sweet finish, serve buttery biscotti alongside a steaming cup of coffee, creating a delightful end to your dining experience.

This collection of pairings enriches the flavors of your Spinach and Tortellini Salad, turning it into a memorable meal that s perfect for gatherings or simple evenings at home.

Spinach and Tortellini Salad Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize your dish with these delightful twists and substitutions!

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortellini for a safe and delicious alternative without sacrificing flavor.

• Creamy Dressing: Swap the Italian dressing for a creamy ranch or cilantro-lime dressing for a richer taste that tempts your taste buds.

• Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas for a protein boost that transforms this salad into a hearty meal.

• Extra Veggies: Mix in diced bell peppers or shredded carrots to enhance the crunch and color, making each bite even more exciting!

• Herb Additions: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the flavor profile, lending aromatic freshness to every mouthful.

• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for an added heat that intensifies the overall flavor without overpowering the freshness.

• Nutty Flavor: Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for an unexpected crunch and depth of flavor, creating a beautiful contrast to the creamy tortellini.

• Vegan Style: Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast and use a plant-based tortellini for a vegan-friendly option that still packs a flavorful punch.

How to Store and Freeze Spinach and Tortellini Salad

Fridge: Store your Spinach and Tortellini Salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and maintains the texture.

Freezer: It s best to avoid freezing this salad as the tortellini and veggies can lose their texture upon thawing. However, if necessary, you can freeze the salad without dressing for up to a month.

Reheating: If you ve stored the salad, simply take it out of the fridge and I recommend enjoying it cold. If you need to eat it warm, gently reheat only the tortellini and serve it with fresh ingredients added afterward.

Serving: When ready to serve, give it a good toss and feel free to add extra Italian dressing, salt, or pepper to refresh the flavors!

Expert Tips for Spinach and Tortellini Salad

• Perfect Pasta: Ensure the tortellini is cooked al dente to maintain a pleasant texture in your Spinach and Tortellini Salad. Overcooking can lead to mushiness.

• Fresh Flavor: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged for a richer flavor that elevates your salad s taste.

• Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in extra vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for added crunch and nutrition; just chop them small for a balanced mix.

• Dress Right: Don t add the dressing too early. Allowing the salad to chill before dressing helps maintain the freshness of the ingredients and prevents sogginess.

• Customize: Experiment with different dressings to match your personal taste; balsamic vinaigrette provides a lovely twist to the classic Italian dressing.

Make Ahead Options

These Spinach and Tortellini Salad are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can cook the tortellini and combine the salad ingredients up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating the salad to allow the flavors to blend beautifully. To maintain quality, store the salad in an airtight container and add the Italian dressing just before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh. When you re ready to enjoy your Spinach and Tortellini Salad, simply give it a gentle toss to recombine and serve chilled. This way, you can delight in a delicious, vibrant salad with minimal effort!

Spinach and Tortellini Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best tortellini for my salad?
Absolutely! When choosing tortellini, look for packages labeled as fresh for the best texture and flavor. Cheese-filled tortellini is popular, but feel free to explore options like spinach or butternut squash for added flavor. Always check for an expiration date and avoid any packages with visible damage or air bubbles!

How should I store leftovers of my Spinach and Tortellini Salad?
Very good question! Store your Spinach and Tortellini Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows for flavors to stay fresh while preventing any sogginess. If you notice any dark spots on the vegetables or a funky smell, it s best to discard.

Can I freeze Spinach and Tortellini Salad?
It s best to avoid freezing this salad as the texture can suffer significantly. However, if you find it necessary to freeze, you can store it without the dressing for up to 1 month. When you re ready to use it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then prepare fresh dressing right before serving for the best flavor!

What if my tortellini turns mushy?
If your tortellini ends up mushy, don t fret! Next time, cook it al dente according to package directions, and remember to drain and cool it quickly. This helps in keeping the pasta firm. If it s too late and mushiness happens, consider adding some crunchy veggies like bell peppers or peas to balance the texture a bit, and don t forget to refresh the flavors with more dressing!

Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
A great thing to consider! This Spinach and Tortellini Salad contains dairy and gluten. If you or your guests have allergies, you may substitute the tortellini with gluten-free pasta and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free option. Always double-check labels to ensure all ingredients meet your dietary needs!

How can I make this salad more filling?
Certainly! To add heartiness, you could mix in protein sources like grilled chicken, diced cucumbers, or even chickpeas. These additions not only enhance flavor but also boost the nutritional profile, making it a satisfying meal. Just remember to adjust the dressing as needed since the increased volume can dilute the flavors!