Description
This 5 Ingredient Tortellini Salad is a quick, simple, and flavorful side dish featuring cheese tortellini, fresh cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and fragrant basil tossed in an Italian dressing. Ideal for potlucks, picnics, or easy weeknight meals, it combines classic Italian flavors with effortless preparation.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 20 oz cheese tortellini
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mozzarella pearls
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
Dressing
- ½ cup Italian dressing
Instructions
- Cook Tortellini: Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package directions, usually boiling them in salted water until tender.
- Cool Tortellini: Drain the cooked tortellini and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta down for the salad.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer the cooled tortellini to a large bowl. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and chopped fresh basil to the bowl.
- Add Dressing and Toss: Pour the Italian dressing over the salad ingredients and toss everything together gently but thoroughly to ensure even coating.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and serve chilled for best taste and texture.
Notes
- Make ahead by preparing the salad a few hours in advance; flavors improve with time.
- Customize by adding olives or diced cucumber for extra texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian