Get ready to savor the vibrant, zesty flavors of *Tortellini Salad Italiana*, a colorful and satisfying dish thatβs perfect for any occasion. This irresistible Italian-inspired salad combines tender cheese tortellini with crisp, fresh vegetables like cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red bell pepper, all beautifully accented by the briny richness of black olives and aromatic fresh basil. A tangy homemade vinaigrette featuring extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a hint of garlic ties the flavors together, while a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds the perfect touch of indulgence. With just 15 minutes of prep and simple cooking steps, this chilled tortellini salad is an ideal make-ahead recipe for picnics, potlucks, or weeknight dinners. Whether served as a refreshing side or a light main dish, *Tortellini Salad Italiana* is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors in every bite!
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions until tender but still firm to the bite (typically 4-6 minutes for fresh tortellini or 8-10 minutes for frozen). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
While the tortellini cools, prepare the vegetables: halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and red bell pepper, thinly slice the red onion, and slice the black olives. Chop the fresh basil leaves.
In a small bowl, prepare the vinaigrette by whisking together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
In a large salad bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, black olives, and fresh basil.
Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and give the salad a final toss.
Refrigerate the Tortellini Salad Italiana for at least 15-20 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy your fresh and zesty Tortellini Salad Italiana!
Calories |
2210 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 133.5 g | 171% | |
| Saturated Fat | 34.5 g | 172% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 156 mg | 52% | |
| Sodium | 4379 mg | 190% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 197.3 g | 72% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 21.6 g | 77% | |
| Total Sugars | 25.2 g | ||
| Protein | 59.8 g | 120% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 824 mg | 63% | |
| Iron | 13.7 mg | 76% | |
| Potassium | 1959 mg | 42% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.