Description

This Tuscan Tortellini Salad features cheese tortellini tossed with fresh cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, and fragrant basil, all brought together with a zesty olive oil and red wine vinegar dressing. Perfectly chilled, this vibrant and refreshing salad combines bold flavors and textures, making it an irresistible dish for a light lunch or a delightful side.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

12 oz cheese tortellini

Vegetables and Herbs

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup black olives, sliced
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

Dressing

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Cook the tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions until al dente.
Rinse and drain: Drain the cooked tortellini and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool them down for the salad.
Combine salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked tortellini, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, sliced black olives, and chopped fresh basil. Gently mix to combine all elements evenly.
Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well emulsified and flavorful.
Toss the salad: Pour the dressing over the tortellini and vegetable mixture, then toss gently to coat everything thoroughly in the dressing.
Chill before serving: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill perfectly before serving.

Notes

For added protein, consider tossing in some grilled chicken or chickpeas.
This salad can be made a few hours ahead and kept refrigerated to deepen the flavors.
Use gluten-free tortellini to make this dish gluten free.
Adjust garlic powder and vinegar quantities to taste for a more or less tangy flavor.
Serve chilled for best taste and freshness.