Description
For the Salad:
12 oz cheese tortellini, cooked and cooled
1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls
¼ cup dried cranberries
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
1 cup arugula
¼ cup pine nuts, toasted
For the Basil Lemon Vinaigrette:
¼ cup olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon dried basil
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon zest, dried basil, salt, and black pepper to make the vinaigrette.
In a large bowl, combine cooked and cooled tortellini, mozzarella pearls, cranberries, basil, arugula, and pine nuts.
Drizzle the basil lemon vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 340 kcal per serving
Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Cook the tortellini according to package directions. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to cool it quickly and stop the cooking process. Let it drain thoroughly.
2. While the pasta cools, prepare the vinaigrette. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon zest, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is fully emulsified and slightly thickened.
3. Toast the pine nuts in a small, dry skillet over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes, shaking the pan frequently, until they are fragrant and lightly golden. Immediately transfer to a plate to cool.
4. In a large serving bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, mozzarella pearls, dried cranberries, chopped fresh basil, and arugula.
5. Add the cooled toasted pine nuts to the bowl. Drizzle the prepared Basil Lemon Vinaigrette over the salad ingredients.
6. Using two large spoons or salad tongs, gently toss the salad until all components are evenly coated with the dressing.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant salad is versatile. For a light lunch, serve it in a shallow bowl with a slice of crusty bread. It makes an excellent side dish for grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp for a more substantial dinner. To turn it into a picnic or potluck star, transport the dressed salad in a sealed container and keep it chilled until serving.
How-to Summary
Cook and cool tortellini. Whisk together oil, lemon, mustard, honey, zest, and herbs for the vinaigrette. Toast pine nuts. Combine all salad ingredients in a large bowl, drizzle with dressing, and toss gently to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, but for best texture, combine everything except the arugula and vinaigrette. Store components separately and toss together just before serving.
What can I substitute for pine nuts? Toasted slivered almonds or chopped walnuts are excellent, budget-friendly alternatives that still provide a nice crunch.
Is there a substitute for fresh mozzarella pearls? Absolutely. You can use cubed fresh mozzarella, small bocconcini, or even crumbled feta cheese for a tangier flavor profile.
Can I use a different pasta? Yes. Cheese ravioli, farfalle (bow-tie pasta), or even a sturdy pasta like rotini will work well with these flavors.
How long do leftovers keep? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the arugula will wilt, and the pasta may absorb more dressing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid adding warm tortellini to the salad, as it will wilt the greens and melt the cheese. Ensure your pine nuts are only toasted until lightly golden; they burn easily. Do not skip the step of whisking the vinaigrette vigorously—proper emulsification is key for a cohesive dressing that won’t separate immediately. Finally, be gentle when tossing to prevent the tortellini and mozzarella pearls from breaking apart.
Conclusion
This Tortellini Salad with Basil Lemon Vinaigrette is a perfect harmony of creamy, tangy, sweet, and nutty flavors, all brought together in under 20 minutes. Its impressive appearance belies its simple preparation, making it an ideal choice for both busy weeknights and special occasions. By following the detailed guide and tips, you can consistently create a stunning, delicious salad that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
