Costco Style Tortellini Pasta Salad – Easy Deli Copycat Recipe
Costco Style Tortellini Pasta Salad – Easy Deli Copycat Recipe
Recreate that irresistible deli-style tortellini pasta salad at home with this simple copycat recipe! Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a quick lunch option, this creamy pasta salad comes together in minutes and tastes just like your favorite grocery store version. With tender cheese-filled tortellini, crisp vegetables, and a tangy creamy dressing, it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Prepare Vegetables
While the tortellini cooks, prepare all your vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, finely chop the red onion, and slice the black olives. Chop the fresh herbs and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the prepared vegetables, herbs, and dressing to the cooled tortellini. Gently toss everything together until well coated. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and give it one final gentle mix.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled as a main dish or side salad. This pasta salad pairs wonderfully with other easy pasta salad recipes for a complete meal spread.
Expert Tips
- Make ahead: This salad actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop.
- Customize: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or roasted red peppers.
- Protein boost: Add grilled chicken or turkey for a heartier meal.
- Creaminess: For an extra creamy texture, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- Serving suggestion: This salad is perfect for parties and pairs well with other crowd-pleasers like this classic homemade coleslaw.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does this pasta salad last in the refrigerator?
Properly stored in an airtight container, this tortellini pasta salad will stay fresh for 3-4 days. The flavors actually improve over time!
Can I use different types of tortellini?
Absolutely! While cheese tortellini is classic, you can use spinach, mushroom, or any other variety you prefer. For more pasta inspiration, check out this ultimate homemade chicken pasta recipe.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This makes an excellent meal prep option. Divide into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. It’s as convenient as store-bought but much fresher and more budget-friendly.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Certainly! Use vegan tortellini and substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with plant-based alternatives. The result will still be delicious and creamy.
What other dishes pair well with this pasta salad?
This versatile salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a larger spread with other salads like this perfect avocado corn salad for a complete meal experience.
Costco Style Tortellini Pasta Salad – Easy Deli Copycat Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- Prepare vegetables: While the tortellini cooks, prepare all your vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, finely chop the red onion, and slice the black olives. Chop the fresh herbs and set aside.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Combine everything: Add the prepared vegetables, herbs, and dressing to the cooled tortellini. Gently toss everything together until well coated. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and give it one final gentle mix.
- Chill and serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled as a main dish or side salad.
