Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a vibrant lunch? Look no further! This tri-color tortellini salad recipe is bursting with fresh flavors and textures, making it a crowd-pleaser for both casual and more elegant gatherings. It's one of those easy recipes that's surprisingly satisfying, and it's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest. This recipe is a go-to for quick dinner ideas, providing a healthy meal without sacrificing taste. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this simple yet stunning dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 (16-ounce) package tri-color cheese tortellini
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved or quartered (depending on size)
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool slightly.
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Prepare the Vegetables: While the tortellini is cooking, halve the cherry tomatoes and prepare the olives and mozzarella. Roughly chop the basil leaves. This step helps speed up the overall cooking process, making it perfect for those busy weeknights.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the cooked tortellini, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, olives, and chopped basil.
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Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference; a touch more balsamic vinegar adds a lovely tang.
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Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the tortellini mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Be careful not to over-toss, as you want to avoid breaking the tortellini.
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Serve and Enjoy: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad just before serving. This helps retain the feta's creamy texture and prevents it from becoming soggy. Serve immediately and enjoy this delightful and delicious dish!
Tips and Variations:
- Add Protein: For a more substantial meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to the salad. This transforms it into a complete and satisfying main course.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little kick.
- Different Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Goat cheese or Parmesan would also be delicious additions.
- Seasonal Vegetables: Use other seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or zucchini.
- Make it Ahead: This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, add the feta cheese just before serving to maintain its texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe makes about 4 servings. Nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. The following is an estimate:
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
This tri-color tortellini salad is a perfect example of how delicious and healthy food recipes can be quick and easy to prepare. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of best recipes, providing a flavorful and satisfying meal for any occasion. Enjoy!