This chimichurri roast beef tortellini pasta salad is bold, garlicky, and packed with flavor in every bite. Made with tender cheese tortellini, savory deli roast beef, and a fresh, herb-loaded chimichurri sauce, this easy pasta salad is perfect for summer gatherings, meal prep, or a quick weeknight dinner.
It’s one of those recipes that feels a little elevated—but comes together with simple ingredients and minimal effort.
More Chimichurri Recipes You’ll Love
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Uses deli roast beef for a quick shortcut
- Loaded with bold garlic and fresh herbs
- Perfect for BBQs, cookouts, and meal prep
- Can be served cold or room temperature
- High flavor, low effort
Ingredients
- 1 (20 oz) package cheese tortellini
- 1/2–3/4 lb deli roast beef, sliced or chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (optional but recommended)
- 1/3 cup shaved parmesan or crumbled feta
Garlicky Chimichurri Dressing:
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 4–5 cloves garlic, minced (don’t hold back here)
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt to taste
>>How to Make Chimichurri Sauce | Fresh, Authentic & Easy
How to Make Chimichurri Roast Beef Tortellini Pasta Salad
1. Cook the Tortellini
Cook according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
2. Make the Chimichurri
In a bowl, combine parsley, garlic, red pepper flakes, vinegar, and olive oil. Season with salt and let sit for 10–15 minutes.
3. Prep the Mix-Ins
Slice or tear the deli roast beef into bite-sized pieces.
Slice tomatoes and red onion.
4. Toss Everything Together
In a large bowl:
- Add tortellini
- Roast beef
- Tomatoes
- Onion
- Herbs
Pour chimichurri over top and toss well.
5. Finish with Cheese
Top with parmesan or feta and give it a light toss.
6. Chill or Serve
Serve immediately or chill for 30–60 minutes for deeper flavor.
Tips for the Best Pasta Salad
- Use refrigerated tortellini for best texture
- Let chimichurri sit before mixing (flavor boost)
- Slice roast beef thin so it blends into the salad
- Don’t overdress—add gradually
Variations
- Add Mozzarella Pearls for extra creaminess
- Add Arugula or Spinach for freshness
- Swap Protein – steak, grilled chicken, or shrimp
- Make it Spicy – add more red pepper flakes
What to Serve With It
Chimichurri Roast Beef Tortellini Pasta Salad
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 SERVINGS 1x
Description
A bold and garlicky pasta salad made with cheese tortellini, tender deli roast beef, and a fresh herb-packed chimichurri dressing. Perfect for summer meals, BBQs, or easy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta Salad:
- 1 (20 oz) package cheese tortellini
- 1/2–3/4 lb deli roast beef, sliced or chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta or shaved parmesan
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (optional)
Garlicky Chimichurri Dressing:
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 4–5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Cook the tortellini according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool completely.
- Make the chimichurri dressing by combining parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, red pepper flakes, olive oil, and salt in a bowl. Stir and let sit for 10–15 minutes to develop flavor.
- Prepare the ingredients by slicing the deli roast beef into bite-sized pieces, halving the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slicing the red onion.
- Assemble the salad by adding the cooled tortellini, roast beef, tomatoes, onion, and herbs to a large bowl.
- Pour the chimichurri dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Add cheese and gently toss again.
- Serve immediately or chill for 30–60 minutes for best flavor.
Notes
- Letting the chimichurri sit before mixing enhances the flavor
- Add dressing gradually to avoid overdressing
- Best served slightly chilled or at room temperature
- Prep Time: 15 MINUTES
- Cook Time: 10 MINUTES
- Category: HOLIDAYS, Side Dish, SIDE DISH | PASTA SALAD
- Method: STOVETOP
- Cuisine: American
Storage
- Store in fridge up to 3 days
- Toss before serving (oil may settle)
- Best served slightly chilled or room temp
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes better after sitting for a bit.
What kind of roast beef works best?
Thin-sliced deli roast beef works perfectly for convenience and texture.
Can I use store-bought chimichurri?
You can, but homemade has much better flavor.
If you love bold flavors and easy meals, this chimichurri roast beef tortellini pasta salad is about to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s fresh, satisfying, and packed with that signature garlicky herb flavor that makes chimichurri so irresistible.
