Tortellini Salad with Basil Dressing
Prep Time: 40 minutes | Cook Time: 2 hours | Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 4
This vibrant and refreshing Tortellini Salad with Basil Dressing is a perfect dish for a light lunch or an elegant gathering. The combination of fresh vegetables, tender tortellini, and a flavorful basil dressing makes this salad both delicious and visually stunning. It’s served beautifully on plates lined with crisp romaine lettuce leaves, adding a touch of sophistication. The salad is best chilled for a couple of hours, allowing all the flavors to meld together perfectly. Whether you’re hosting a ladies’ lunch or looking for a delightful dish to bring to a picnic, this tortellini salad is sure to impress.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh basil | 2 tablespoons |
| Dried basil | 4 teaspoons |
| Dijon-style mustard | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh ground black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Water | 1/3 cup |
| Broccoli florets | 2 cups |
| Carrot (sliced) | 1 large |
| Green onions (chopped) | 3 stalks |
| Tomatoes (chopped) | 1 medium |
| Romaine lettuce leaves | 1 head |
| Frozen pea pods (optional) | 1 cup |
Nutrition Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 246.2 kcal |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 26.8 mg |
| Sodium | 257.7 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 40.6 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.2 g |
| Sugars | 4.9 g |
| Protein | 11.6 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Basil Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh basil, dried basil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, sugar, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined. -
-
Add Wet Ingredients
Blend in the water and vinegar until the dressing has a smooth consistency. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dressing for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. -
Cook the Tortellini
While the dressing chills, cook the tortellini according to the package directions, omitting any oil or salt. Add the broccoli florets and sliced carrots during the last 3 minutes of cooking. This ensures the vegetables stay crisp and vibrant while the tortellini cooks to perfection. -
Cool and Drain
Once the pasta and vegetables are cooked, drain the mixture and rinse it under cold running water to stop the cooking process. Allow the mixture to drain thoroughly. -
Combine Salad Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta mixture with the chopped green onions. Drizzle the basil dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. -
Chill
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours. This chilling time allows the flavors to come together and enhances the overall taste. -
Finish the Salad
Just before serving, stir in the chopped tomatoes and pea pods (if using). -
Serve
Arrange the chilled romaine lettuce leaves on 4 individual plates. Spoon the tortellini salad mixture onto the lettuce-lined plates, and serve immediately.
Tips for Success
- Fresh Basil: Fresh basil gives this dressing its vibrant and aromatic flavor. If you don’t have fresh basil, you can substitute with more dried basil, though the taste may be slightly different.
- Customizing Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables, such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or cherry tomatoes, to make this salad your own.
- Tortellini Varieties: This recipe works wonderfully with any type of tortellini—cheese, spinach, or even a meat-filled variety, depending on your preference.
- Make-Ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance. Just keep it chilled in the fridge, and it will be ready to serve when you’re ready to eat.
This Tortellini Salad with Basil Dressing not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a colorful and nutritious addition to your meal. The blend of tortellini, fresh vegetables, and a tangy basil dressing creates a dish that’s both satisfying and light. Perfect for any occasion, this salad brings together simplicity and elegance in every bite.
