This Tortellini Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines tender cheese-filled tortellini with a variety of fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing. Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, this salad is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook Tortellini:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- Prepare Vegetables:
- While the tortellini is cooking, prepare the vegetables: halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and bell pepper, finely chop the red onion, slice the black olives, and chop the fresh basil.
- Make Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Assemble Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, bell pepper, and fresh basil.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Serve:
- Transfer the Tortellini Salad to a serving platter or bowl.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Serving Suggestions:
- Main Dish: Serve as a light and refreshing main dish for lunch or dinner.
- Side Dish: Pair with grilled chicken, fish, or steak for a complete meal.
- Potluck Favorite: Bring to picnics, potlucks, or BBQs as a crowd-pleasing side.
Cooking Tips:
- Chill: For best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Variations: Add other vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or artichoke hearts for more variety.
- Protein Boost: Include cooked chicken, ham, or chickpeas for added protein.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Tortellini: Provides a good source of carbohydrates and protein.
- Vegetables: High in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Olive Oil: Contains healthy fats and antioxidants.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free tortellini to make the dish gluten-free.
- Low-Carb Option: Substitute with cauliflower or broccoli florets instead of tortellini for a lower-carb version.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Fresh and Flavorful: Combines fresh vegetables with a zesty dressing and tender tortellini.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy days.
- Versatile: Can be served as a main dish, side dish, or at gatherings.
- Healthy: Packed with nutritious ingredients and healthy fats.
Conclusion:
This Tortellini Salad is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that offers a fresh and vibrant flavor. With its combination of cheese-filled tortellini, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing, it’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this salad as a main dish, side dish, or a potluck favorite, and savor the delightful blend of flavors and textures.