Tortellini Pasta Salad
Treat yourself to a delightful tortellini pasta salad that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a light lunch. This refreshing dish combines tender tortellini with fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing, making it a vibrant addition to any meal. With its colorful presentation and delicious flavors, it’s sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings!
Ingredients
- 2 cups tortellini (cheese or meat-filled)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time for the tortellini is approximately 5-7 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 1 cup) contains about 350 calories, 15g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. This value is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions (usually 5-7 minutes).
- While the tortellini cooks, prepare the vegetables.
- Chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, chopped vegetables, and olives.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Add fresh basil and toss again to distribute evenly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily swap out ingredients based on your preferences. For instance, use sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh ones or substitute mozzarella balls for olives. This flexibility allows you to customize the salad to your taste.
Serving and Pairings
Tortellini pasta salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, crusty bread, or a light white wine. It’s also a great standalone dish for a picnic or barbecue, adding a refreshing touch to your meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This dish is best served cold, so there’s no need to reheat. It can also be frozen, but the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not salting the pasta water can lead to bland tortellini.
- Overcooking the tortellini makes them mushy.
- Skipping the chilling step misses out on enhancing the flavors.
- Not tossing the salad properly can lead to uneven dressing distribution.
- Using stale ingredients can affect the overall taste.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs for a vibrant flavor boost.
- Consider adding protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas.
- Experiment with different dressings for variety.
- Mix in seasonal vegetables for added nutrition.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, frozen tortellini works great for this salad. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package.
How long does tortellini pasta salad last?
Properly stored, it can last in the fridge for about 3 days, though it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad actually tastes better when made a few hours or even a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld.
What can I add for extra crunch?
Consider adding bell peppers, radishes, or even nuts for an added crunch.
Is this salad gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free tortellini and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Conclusion
Tortellini pasta salad is a versatile and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a main course, a side, or a picnic staple, its appealing combination of textures and tastes is sure to please. Try it today and experience a refreshing twist on traditional pasta dishes!
Tortellini Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups tortellini cheese or meat-filled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup cucumber diced
- 1/2 cup olives pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup red onion finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions (usually 5-7 minutes).
- While the tortellini cooks, prepare the vegetables.
- Chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, chopped vegetables, and olives.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Add fresh basil and toss again to distribute evenly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
