Refreshing Broccoli-Tortellini Salad: A Perfect Potluck Delight
If you are in search of a quick, flavorful dish that brings together vibrant ingredients in a delightful medley, look no further than this Broccoli-Tortellini Salad. Passed down through generations in my family, this recipe has become a staple for gatherings, potlucks, and summer barbecues, capturing the essence of fresh produce and savory flavors that please any palate. With minimal preparation time, you can whip up this stunning salad in just 30 minutes, making it a convenient option for any occasion.
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 7 | cups broccoli florets |
| 1 | cup fresh parsley, chopped |
| 1/2 | cup chopped pimiento |
| 1 | cup green onions, sliced |
| 1 | cup fresh basil, chopped |
| 2 | teaspoons garlic powder |
| 1 | cup cherry tomatoes, halved |
| 1/2 | cup Parmesan cheese, grated |
| 1/2 | cup black olives, sliced |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 |
| Total Fat | 9.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 17.6 mg |
| Sodium | 606.9 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 23.9 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.3 g |
| Sugars | 3.2 g |
| Protein | 8.1 g |
Instructions
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Cook the Tortellini: Begin by preparing the tortellini according to the package directions. I personally recommend using fresh, tri-colored tortellini for added color and flavor. Cooking it to al dente ensures the pasta maintains a firm texture that complements the crispness of the vegetables.
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Prepare the Broccoli: While the tortellini cooks, take the time to prepare the broccoli. Cut it into bite-sized florets for easy eating. For an extra touch of tenderness, you may choose to lightly steam the broccoli, enhancing its vibrant green color and retaining its nutritional value.
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Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, broccoli florets, chopped parsley, pimento, undrained artichoke hearts, sliced green onions, chopped basil, and garlic powder. This combination not only brings a variety of textures and flavors to the salad but also adds a delightful visual appeal.
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Dress the Salad: Pour in your choice of Italian dressing; I suggest Bernsteins Restaurant Recipe Italian or Newman’s Own for their robust flavors. Stir everything together gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing.
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Chill Before Serving: To allow the flavors to meld beautifully, cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad until you are ready to serve. This resting time enhances the overall taste and provides a refreshing chill, perfect for warm days.
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Add Final Touches: Just before serving, stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced black olives, and grated Parmesan cheese. These final additions not only enhance the salad’s flavor profile but also contribute an extra burst of color and richness.
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Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual bowls and enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures. This Broccoli-Tortellini Salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delicious addition to any meal or gathering.
Conclusion
This Broccoli-Tortellini Salad encapsulates the joy of simple, fresh ingredients coming together to create a dish that is not only nourishing but also a delight to share with loved ones. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or as a quick side for dinner, this salad is sure to impress. With just a few steps and minimal time investment, you can create a dish that your family and friends will rave about for years to come. Enjoy every bite!
