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Tortellini Pasta Salad with Fresh Vegetables and Herb Vinaigrette Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 89 reviews

A vibrant and flavorful Tortellini Pasta Salad featuring cheese tortellini, fresh vegetables, olives, salami, and a zesty homemade dressing. Perfect for a refreshing meal or side dish, this salad combines Italian-inspired ingredients with a tangy red wine vinegar dressing for a delightful and satisfying dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Vegetables

  • 20 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, peeled and chopped
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup pitted kalamata olives, chopped
  • 2 cups baby spinach or arugula
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

Cheese and Meat

  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls
  • 1/2 cup chopped salami or pepperoni
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Dressing

  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp honey
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the refrigerated cheese tortellini according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and transfer to a large bowl.
  2. Make the dressing: In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Shake vigorously until the dressing is well emulsified.
  3. Toss tortellini with dressing: Pour half of the dressing over the warm tortellini and toss gently to coat evenly. Allow it to cool for about 10 minutes so the tortellini absorbs some dressing flavor.
  4. Add vegetables and cheeses: To the bowl with the tortellini, add the halved cherry tomatoes, chopped cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, chopped kalamata olives, fresh mozzarella balls, chopped salami, grated Parmesan cheese, baby spinach or arugula, and chopped fresh basil. Pour the remaining dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
  5. Chill to meld flavors: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Before serving, toss the salad again and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or vinegar if desired.
  6. Serve and garnish: Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese if preferred. Serve the Tortellini Pasta Salad chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing, tasty dish.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, omit the salami or pepperoni.
  • Use fresh tortellini for best texture and flavor.
  • Can be prepared a day ahead to enhance flavor melding.
  • Adjust honey and vinegar amounts to balance sweetness and acidity to taste.
  • Add more fresh herbs such as parsley or oregano for additional freshness.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: Tortellini pasta salad, cheese tortellini salad, Italian pasta salad, easy pasta salad, tortellini recipe, summer salad

Find it online: https://tastewithamy.com/tortellini-pasta-salad-with-fresh-vegetables-and-herb-vinaigrette-recipe/