Description
For the Salad:
12 oz cheese tortellini, cooked and cooled
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup cucumber, diced
½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
For the Lemon Vinaigrette:
¼ cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and black pepper to make the vinaigrette.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, feta cheese, red onion, and basil.
Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal per serving
Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Guide
1. 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. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool completely.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta cools, wash and halve the cherry tomatoes. Dice the cucumber, thinly slice the red onion, and chop the fresh basil leaves. Crumble the feta cheese.
3. Make the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is fully emulsified and slightly thickened.
4. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled tortellini, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and basil. Gently toss to distribute the ingredients.
5. Dress and Finish: Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the salad. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated. Fold in the crumbled feta cheese last to prevent it from breaking down too much.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant salad is versatile. Serve it as a light main course for lunch, or as a substantial side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or lamb. For a summer gathering, present it in a large, shallow bowl garnished with extra basil leaves and lemon wedges. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread to soak up the delicious dressing.
How-to Summary
Cook and cool tortellini. Chop tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and basil. Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, zest, mustard, and spices for the dressing. Combine all salad ingredients in a large bowl, pour dressing over, toss gently, and fold in feta cheese. Chill briefly before serving for best flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, but for best texture, prepare the components separately. Combine the dressed tortellini and vegetables up to a day ahead, but add the fresh basil and feta cheese just before serving.
What can I use instead of feta cheese? Goat cheese, fresh mozzarella pearls (bocconcini), or even a firm ricotta salata are excellent substitutes that pair well with the lemon vinaigrette.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian? This recipe is vegetarian as written. Ensure your packaged tortellini contains no meat products if adhering to a strict vegetarian diet.
How should I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The pasta may absorb more dressing, so you might want to refresh it with a small squeeze of lemon juice before serving again.
Can I use a different pasta? Absolutely. Cheese ravioli, farfalle (bow-tie pasta), or even a sturdy grain like pearl couscous would work well with these flavors and textures.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Warm Tortellini: Adding warm pasta will wilt the vegetables and melt the cheese. Ensure it is completely cooled.
- Over-dressing the Salad: Start with 3/4 of the dressing, toss, and add more only if needed to prevent a soggy salad.
- Not Tossing Gently: Vigorous tossing can break the tortellini and crush the tomatoes. Use a folding motion.
- Skipping the Lemon Zest: The zest provides a potent, bright citrus oil that is essential for a vibrant flavor.
Conclusion
This Lemon Herb Tortellini Salad is a perfect harmony of fresh, zesty, and creamy flavors, all coming together in under 20 minutes. It’s a reliable recipe that is as suitable for a quick family dinner as it is for a potluck or picnic. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a stunning and delicious dish every time. Enjoy the bright, refreshing taste of this simple yet impressive salad.
