Prepare to make this Tortellini Salad recipe over and over again! It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that is not only bursting with freshness and flavor but also incredibly easy to assemble. The best part is that you can whip it up in just a few minutes and even prepare it in advance, storing it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Whether you’re planning a picnic, potluck, or simply looking for a light and satisfying lunch at home, this salad is a definite winner.
What is Tortellini Salad?
Tortellini, a pasta variety filled with meat, vegetables, or cheese and shaped into a small ring, can be transformed into a delightful salad. This entails combining cooked and cooled tortellini with summer vegetables, herbs, greens, and a vinaigrette. Occasionally, chopped cured meats or pickled peppers are incorporated. What makes it truly satisfying for me is its simplicity, as it only takes three steps to prepare. Moreover, it is incredibly filling and an excellent option when catering to a large group while minimizing time spent in the kitchen.
Ingredients for Tortellini Salad
Tortellini Salad requires just a few ingredients, with the pasta taking center stage. While you have the option to use various types of tortellini, we opted for cheese tortellini to maintain a straightforward flavor profile. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare Tortellini Salad:
Tips For Making The Best Tortellini Salad
What To Serve with Tortellini Salad
In addition to being a delicious standalone dish, Tortellini Salad is a versatile option that can be included in a variety of meals, such as backyard barbecues or picnics. It pairs exceptionally well as a side with Greek Marinated Chicken or Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp. For a complete and satisfying meal, I enjoy serving it alongside No-Knead Homemade Focaccia and Balsamic Roasted Vegetables.
How To Store Tortellini Salad
The tortellini salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but it is important to keep the leftovers in an airtight container. If you plan on preparing the salad in advance, I suggest cooking the tortellini, chopping and seasoning the squash and zucchini, and preparing the remaining ingredients. Place the tortellini in a large container, followed by the vegetables and greens. When you are ready to serve, mix in Parmesan cheese and dressing.
How to Make Tortellini Salad – Step By Step Photos
Start by following the package instructions to cook one pound of tortellini. Once cooked, drain the tortellini thoroughly and allow it to cool in a large bowl in the refrigerator.
After starting the tortellini cooking, proceed by slicing the summer squash and zucchini into 1/4-inch rounds. Then, quarter the rounds and transfer them to a spacious bowl. Sprinkle some salt over the sliced vegetables and thoroughly mix them.
After the tortellini has cooled down, it’s time to start assembling. Begin by placing the tortellini in a serving dish, followed by adding the zucchini and squash, 1 pint of cherry tomatoes that have been halved, 1/2 a red onion that has been sliced, 2 cups of fresh baby spinach, and 1/2 cup of sliced black olives. Finally, generously drizzle the entire dish with 1/2 cup of Italian dressing.
Afterward, sprinkle 1/2 cup of chopped Italian parsley and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese over the salad. Lastly, drizzle the remaining 1/4 cup of Italian dressing on top.
In conclusion, mix the ingredients together and serve! Wasn’t it a breeze? Now, go nourish your troops and relish your moments with them, rather than being stuck in the kitchen!
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