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Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Mediterranean Pasta Salad: A Fresh Twist on a Classic Delight

This Mediterranean Pasta Salad is a fresh and customizable delight filled with vibrant ingredients, burst of flavors, and perfect for meal prep.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 8 cups Shredded Kale Substitution: Baby spinach or arugula for a milder flavor.
  • 1 9-ounce pouch Cheese Tortellini Substitution: Gluten-free pasta or short pasta shapes like rotini or penne.
For the Creamy Elements
  • 1 cup Feta Cheese Substitution: Goat cheese for a different tang.
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese Optional to increase for more richness.
For Flavor Boosters
  • ½ cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes Can use fresh tomatoes for a different flavor profile.
  • ¾ cup Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
  • 6 cloves Garlic Minced.
Fresh Accents
  • 6 tablespoons Fresh Basil Leaves Substitution: Dried basil (1 tablespoon) if fresh is unavailable.
  • 3 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice Bottled lemon juice can be used as a substitute.
  • Salt Essential for seasoning to taste.
  • Pepper Essential for seasoning to taste.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • whisk or jar
  • Colander
  • large spoon or spatula
  • plastic wrap or airtight container

Method
 

Directions
  1. In a small bowl or jar, combine ¾ cup of extra-virgin olive oil, minced garlic, chopped basil, fresh lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk or shake vigorously until well blended and emulsified. Set aside to allow flavors to meld.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the cheese tortellini. Cook according to package directions for 4-5 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
  3. While the tortellini is cooling, stem and finely chop 8 cups of shredded kale. Aim for bite-sized pieces for even distribution.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, chopped kale, crumbled feta cheese, grated Parmesan, and sliced sun-dried tomatoes. Gently stir to ensure even distribution.
  5. Pour the prepared dressing evenly over the salad mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat each ingredient.
  6. Cover the salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 12gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. For best results, keep dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.

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