Tortellini Pasta Salad

Name: Tortellini Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 12 oz cheese tortellini; 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved); 1 cup arugula; 1/2 cup black olives (sliced); 1/2 cup bell pepper (diced); 1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped); 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

This tortellini pasta salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings together the flavors of Italy in every bite. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner, this salad combines tender tortellini with fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing. It’s not just delicious; it’s also a feast for the eyes, making it an ideal choice for gatherings. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will surely impress your friends and family.

Ingredients

– 12 oz cheese tortellini
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup arugula
– 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 10 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 320 calories, 14g of fat, 38g of carbohydrates, and 10g of protein. This is based on a standard serving size of 1 cup.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Boil water in a large pot and add a pinch of salt.
2. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the tortellini and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
4. In a large bowl, combine the tortellini, cherry tomatoes, arugula, olives, bell pepper, and red onion.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
6. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
7. Adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper to taste.
8. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to let flavors meld.
9. Serve cold or at room temperature.
10. Garnish with additional arugula if desired.

Alternative Ingredients

Feel free to substitute the cheese tortellini with spinach or whole wheat tortellini for a healthier option. You can also add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein, and replace arugula with baby spinach for a milder taste.

Serving and Pairings

This tortellini pasta salad pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a light soup. It’s perfect as a side dish at barbecues or as a main dish for a light lunch.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This salad is best enjoyed cold and can be served straight from the fridge. It’s not recommended to freeze due to the texture of the vegetables.

Cooking Mistakes

Don’t overcook the tortellini; they should be al dente.
Rinse the tortellini after cooking to prevent sticking.
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Don’t skip the chilling step; it enhances the flavors.
Adjust the dressing to your taste; less can sometimes be more.

Helpful Tips

Prepare the salad a few hours in advance for optimal flavor.
Experiment with different vegetables based on what you have on hand.
Try adding nuts for a crunchy texture.
Use a variety of olives for added flavor complexity.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, tortellini pasta salad can be made a few hours ahead. Just keep it refrigerated until serving to maintain freshness.

What can I add for extra protein?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are great additions for extra protein in your salad.

How can I make this salad vegan?

Use vegan tortellini and replace cheese with nutritional yeast or leave it out entirely, adding more vegetables for flavor.

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Absolutely! Just follow the package instructions for cooking; frozen tortellini works perfectly in this salad.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free tortellini made from alternative flours such as rice or quinoa.

Conclusion

This tortellini pasta salad is not only a feast for the palate but also a colorful addition to any table. With its delightful mix of flavors and textures, it’s an easy recipe that guarantees satisfaction. Enjoy it as a side or a main dish, and don’t hesitate to customize it to your liking!