🍝 TORTELLINI PASTA SALAD 🥗✨
A refreshing, colorful, and flavorful pasta salad perfect for picnics, potlucks, or meal prep!
📝 Ingredients (Serves 6-8)
For the Salad:
✅ 20 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini (or any preferred variety)
✅ 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
✅ 1 cucumber, peeled and chopped
✅ 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
✅ 1 cup pitted kalamata olives, whole or chopped
✅ 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
✅ 1/2 cup chopped turkey salami (optional)
✅ 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
✅ 2 cups baby spinach or arugula
✅ 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
For the Dressing:
✅ 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
✅ 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
✅ 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
✅ 1 teaspoon honey
✅ 1 clove garlic, minced
✅ 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
✅ Salt and pepper to taste
👨🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
1️⃣ Cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente.
2️⃣ Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
1️⃣ In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2️⃣ Set aside for flavors to blend.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
1️⃣ In a large mixing bowl, combine tortellini, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, mozzarella balls, turkey salami, spinach/arugula, and basil.
2️⃣ Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
3️⃣ Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
🍽️ Tips & Variations
⭐ Make it Vegetarian? Skip the turkey salami.
⭐ More Protein? Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
⭐ Add a Crunch? Toss in toasted pine nuts or almonds.
⭐ Make it Creamier? Add avocado or a dollop of pesto.
⭐ Prefer a Different Dressing? Swap red wine vinegar for balsamic vinegar or lemon juice.
⚖️ Nutritional Info (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 15g
- Carbs: 35g
- Fats: 18g
💪 Health Benefits
✔ High in Protein & Fiber – Keeps you full longer.
✔ Rich in Antioxidants – Tomatoes, spinach, and olives boost immunity.
✔ Heart-Healthy Fats – Olive oil and olives promote good cholesterol.
✔ Great for Meal Prep – Stays fresh for 2-3 days in the fridge!
❓ Q&A
❓ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes better after a few hours as the flavors meld together. Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
❓ Can I use frozen tortellini?
Absolutely! Just cook it according to the package instructions and let it cool before mixing with the salad.
❓ What can I substitute for mozzarella balls?
Try crumbled feta, diced cheddar, or goat cheese for a twist.