Description
A vibrant and flavorful tortellini pasta salad bursting with fresh vegetables, creamy feta, and a zesty homemade dressing. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a light summer meal.
Ingredients
20 oz fresh or frozen cheese tortellini
1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
1 English cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, diced
4 oz fresh mozzarella pearls, drained (optional)
4 oz crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
For the Dressing:
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the tortellini according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and immediately rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Set aside to cool completely.
Step 2: While the tortellini cools, prepare your vegetables. Halve the cherry or grape tomatoes, dice the English cucumber, and finely chop the red onion and bell pepper. If you're using fresh mozzarella pearls, drain them.
Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, halved tomatoes, diced cucumber, chopped red onion, bell pepper, and fresh mozzarella pearls (if using).
Step 5: Pour the prepared dressing over the tortellini and vegetables. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are well coated. Add the crumbled feta cheese and fresh basil, then toss once more.
Step 6: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. For best results, chill for 1-2 hours. Before serving, give it another gentle toss.
Notes
For an even richer flavor, prepare the dressing an hour or two in advance. Feel free to add grilled chicken or chickpeas for a complete meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Sides & Salads
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 55mg