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Simple Cold Tortellini Pasta Salad Recipe

Simple Cold Tortellini Pasta Salad

Welcome to the delightful world of pasta salads! If you're seeking a refreshing and satisfying dish that's perfect for warm days, potlucks, or quick weeknight dinners, look no further than this Simple Cold Tortellini Pasta Salad. This recipe combines the rich flavors of cheese tortellini with fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing, resulting in a dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 12 oz cheese tortellini cooked and cooled
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup cucumber diced
  • 1 cup bell pepper diced
  • ½ cup red onion finely chopped
  • ½ cup black olives sliced
  • ½ cup feta cheese crumbled
  • ¼ cup fresh basil chopped
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Small Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Cutting Board
  • Knife
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Plastic Wrap or Airtight Container

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Cook the Tortellini: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 3 to 5 minutes. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and rinse under cold water to cool it down quickly.
  2. Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables: While the tortellini is cooking, wash and prepare your vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and bell pepper, finely chop the red onion, and slice the black olives.
  3. Step 3: Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled tortellini with the prepared vegetables. Add the crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh basil to the bowl as well. Gently mix the ingredients together.
  4. Step 4: Make the Dressing: In a separate small mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
  5. Step 5: Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the tortellini mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
  6. Step 6: Chill and Serve: Cover the salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

Feel free to add proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it a heartier meal.