INGREDIENTS
Italian Dressing
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 cloves garlic crushed
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
1/2 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
1/2 tablespoon chopped fresh Italian parsley
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
Tortellini Pasta Salad
1 16 ounce bag cheese tortellini
1 1/2 cups cups halved grape tomatoes or cherry tomatoes
1 small red bell pepper diced
1/3 cup chopped red onion
8 ounces mozzarella balls
1/2 cup sliced pepperoncini
8 ounces salami chopped
1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
1 tablespoon chopped fresh Italian parsley
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 cup Italian dressing
kosher salt to taste
fresh ground black pepper to taste
INSTRUCTIONS
Whisk the salad dressing ingredients in a bowl or add them to a mason jar and shake to combine
Cook tortellini according to package directions. Drain in a colander and rinse with cold water. Add the tortellini, tomatoes, bell peppers, red onion, mozzarella balls, pepperoncini, salami, basil, parsley, and oregano.
Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
NOTES
Do not overcook the tortellini pasta. For best results, cook slightly al dente.
Fresh herbs are best. If you must use dried herbs, remember that dried herbs are more concentrated. So you only need one-third of the amount.
I use grape tomatoes, but you can use any fresh sun-ripened tomatoes.
Use your favorite bottled Italian salad dressing or whip up some homemade dressing.
Mozzarella balls are available in the fresh cheese case at most grocery stores. You can substitute cubes or even shredded mozzarella if that is all that is available.
Along with the bell peppers, I like to add cherry peppers and pepperoncini. Any tasty fresh or jarred pepper will add oodles of flavor.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
NUTRITION
Calories: 314kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 14g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 40mg | Sodium: 1124mg | Potassium: 326mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 590IU | Vitamin C: 24mg | Calcium: 132mg | Iron: 1mg