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Tortellini, the star of this salad, has a long and rich history rooted in Italian cuisine. Originating from the Emilia-Romagna region, tortellini is a type of pasta that is traditionally stuffed with a variety of fillings, most commonly cheese or meats. The unique shape of tortellini, resembling a small ring, not only makes it fun to eat but also allows it to hold onto sauces and dressings beautifully. This characteristic makes tortellini an excellent base for salads, as it can absorb flavors while providing a delightful chewiness that complements the crunch of fresh vegetables.

Tortellini Salad

Discover the delightful Tortellini Fiesta Salad, a colorful dish that's perfect for any occasion! This vibrant salad blends cheese tortellini with fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and bell pepper, offering a satisfying crunch and plenty of nutrition. Ideal for summer gatherings or a light meal, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients. Enjoy a burst of flavors and textures in every bite with this versatile and nutritious salad!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz cheese tortellini

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced

½ cup red onion, finely chopped

1 cup baby spinach or mixed greens

½ cup black olives, sliced

½ cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved

¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

½ cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)

Salt and pepper to taste

Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

    Prepare the Vegetables: While the tortellini is cooking, wash and chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Place them in a large mixing bowl.

      Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked tortellini, baby spinach, black olives, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil to the bowl with the vegetables. Gently toss to combine all the ingredients.

        Dress the Salad: Drizzle the Italian dressing over the tortellini salad. Toss everything together until all ingredients are well-coated in the dressing. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

          Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve cold, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 4-6 servings