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+ servings

Creamy Cheese Tortellini Pasta Salad

A vibrant and crowd-pleasing tortellini pasta salad loaded with cheese, fresh vegetables, and a tangy vinaigrette, perfect for potlucks or weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 20 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, peeled and chopped
  • 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup pitted kalamata olives, chopped
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
  • 1/2 cup chopped salami or pepperoni Omit for a vegetarian version.
  • 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 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp honey
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook per package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
  2. While the pasta cooks, make the dressing: in a jar with a tight-fitting lid combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon, honey, minced garlic, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Shake vigorously until emulsified.
  3. Pour half the dressing over the warm tortellini. Toss gently to coat so the pasta absorbs flavor. Let sit and cool for 10 minutes.
Combining and Chilling
  1. Add tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, mozzarella, chopped salami, Parmesan, baby spinach (or arugula), and chopped basil to the bowl.
  2. Drizzle the remaining dressing over the salad. Toss gently until everything is evenly combined.
  3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let flavors meld. Before serving, toss again and taste for seasoning.
  4. Add more salt, pepper, or a splash of vinegar if it needs brightness.
Serving
  1. Garnish with extra basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 15gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5g

Notes

This salad is versatile and can be served as a main dish, side, or at potlucks. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Not recommended for freezing.

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