This Tortellini Salad combines cheese-filled tortellini with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a tangy vinaigrette, making it a colorful and satisfying dish perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a refreshing meal. The combination of flavors and textures makes this salad a delightful option for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound cheese-filled tortellini
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Vinaigrette:
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- Prepare the Salad Ingredients: Add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, mozzarella cheese, basil, and parsley to the bowl with the cooled tortellini. Toss gently to combine.
- Make the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, sugar, salt, and pepper until well combined and emulsified.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the vinaigrette over the tortellini and vegetable mixture. Toss well to ensure everything is evenly coated with the dressing. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill Before Serving: For the best flavor, cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Give the salad a gentle stir before serving. If desired, garnish with additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 12g
Prep and Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes (for the tortellini)
- Additional Time: 1 hour for chilling
Servings:
- Serves: 6 people
Tortellini Salad is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the flavors of Italy in a fresh, vibrant salad form. Perfect for warm weather dining or when you’re looking for a dish that’s both satisfying and light.
