Description
A vibrant Tortellini Pasta Salad bursting with fresh flavors, perfect for summer picnics.
Ingredients
Scale
- 20 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, peeled and chopped
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup pitted kalamata olives, chopped
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls
- ½ cup chopped salami or pepperoni
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups baby spinach or arugula
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the tortellini: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the tortellini. Boil according to package directions until al dente. Drain the tortellini and rinse under cold water to cool it down rapidly.
- Prepare the dressing: While the tortellini cooks, grab a jar with a tight-fitting lid. Combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, dried oregano, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Seal the jar and shake vigorously until the dressing emulsifies beautifully.
- Combine it all: In a large mixing bowl, transfer the drained tortellini. Pour half of the prepared dressing over the warm pasta and toss gently to ensure it coats every little piece. Allow it to cool for about 10 minutes.
- Add the goodies: Sprinkle in the halved cherry tomatoes, chopped cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, kalamata olives, mozzarella balls, salami or pepperoni, grated Parmesan cheese, baby spinach or arugula, and fresh basil. Add the rest of the dressing and toss gently until all the ingredients marry deliciously.
- Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together. Before serving, give it one last toss, and taste for seasoning. Adjust with additional salt, pepper, or vinegar as desired.
- Serve: Garnish with extra basil and Parmesan, if desired, and serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy the symphony of flavors from each mouthful!
Notes
Make-ahead Tips: Prepare this salad a day in advance for the flavors to intensify. Cooking Alternatives: Consider using frozen tortellini to save time.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg