Description
For the Salad:
12 oz cheese tortellini, cooked and cooled
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/3 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup cucumber, diced
2 tbsp capers
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Lemon Herb Dressing:
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 garlic clove, minced
Directions:
Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and minced garlic.
Set aside.
Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, cherry tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, red onion, cucumber, capers, and parsley.
Dress & Toss: Drizzle the lemon herb dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all evenly.
Chill & Serve: Let the salad sit for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, then serve chilled or at room temperature.
Enjoy this fresh and tangy Mediterranean tortellini salad!
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 20 minutes Kcal: 420 per serving Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect salad every time.
- Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package directions, usually 3-5 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse immediately under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool completely.
- Prepare the Dressing: While the pasta cools, make the dressing. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is fully emulsified and slightly thickened.
- Chop the Vegetables: Halve the cherry tomatoes, thinly slice the red onion, dice the cucumber, slice the Kalamata olives, and chop the fresh parsley. Having all components prepped and ready makes assembly quick.
- Combine the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled tortellini, prepared tomatoes, onion, cucumber, olives, capers, crumbled feta, and parsley.
- Toss and Marinate: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently toss everything together until evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad shines in various settings. Serve it as a vibrant main course for a light lunch. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or lamb chops for a more substantial dinner. For a picnic or potluck, transport it in a sealed container and keep it cool. Garnish with extra fresh parsley or a sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving for a bright, fresh finish.
How-to Summary
Cook and cool tortellini. Whisk dressing ingredients until emulsified. Combine all salad components in a large bowl. Gently toss with the dressing. Chill for 15+ minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it up to a day in advance. For best results, add the dressing 1-2 hours before serving to prevent the tortellini from becoming soggy.
What can I use instead of cheese tortellini?
Any filled pasta like ravioli or meat tortellini works well. For a non-pasta option, try chickpeas, cooked farro, or orzo.
How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop.
Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely. Goat cheese or ricotta salata are excellent tangy substitutes for feta.
Is there a way to make the dressing creamier?
Add a tablespoon of plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise to the dressing ingredients before whisking for a richer, creamier texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Tortellini: This leads to mushy pasta in your salad. Cook only to al dente and cool promptly.
- Skipping the Marinating Time: The 15-minute chill is crucial for the pasta to absorb the dressing and flavors to combine.
- Using Bottled Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice and zest are essential for the dressing’s bright, authentic flavor.
- Not Tossing Gently: Aggressive mixing can break the tortellini and crush the feta. Fold the ingredients together carefully.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Tortellini Salad is a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors that comes together with minimal effort. The combination of tender pasta, briny olives and capers, creamy feta, and a zesty lemon-herb dressing is consistently delightful. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a reliable dish perfect for any occasion. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can yield an extraordinarily tasty result. Enjoy your culinary creation!
