Introduction
Bright, vibrant, and utterly delightful, this Roasted Red Pepper and Parmesan Tortellini Salad is the perfect addition to your summer table. With every bite, you’ll experience a burst of flavors that combine the richness of cheese tortellini, the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, and the tangy zest of balsamic dressing. Whether you’re serving it at a picnic, a potluck, or simply enjoying a light lunch at home, this salad is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1 package (9 ounces) cheese tortellini
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by cooking the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside to cool. The tortellini should be tender but with a slight bite to it — that perfect “al dente” texture!
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced roasted red peppers, finely chopped red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and the fragrant fresh basil. The colors should be stunning, creating a cheerful medley that invites you to dig right in.
- Once the tortellini has cooled, gently add it to the bowl with the vegetables, being careful not to break the tortellini. Toss everything together with a light hand to ensure the ingredients are evenly mixed.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.
- Drizzle the dressing over the tortellini salad and mix gently to combine. The dressing will bring the whole dish to life, enhancing the fresh ingredients.
- Top the salad with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, adding a rich, nutty flavor that ties everything together. This salad can be served immediately or chilled for a bit — either way, it’s delicious!
Notes or Tips
For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a delightful kick. You can also make this salad ahead of time; it’s even better after the flavors have a chance to marry in the refrigerator for a couple of hours. Just be sure to stir again before serving!
Cooking Techniques
Cooking tortellini is a straightforward process, but keep an eye on it! Overcooking can make it mushy. Remember to toss the tortellini with a bit of olive oil if you’re making it ahead, to prevent sticking. Also, feel free to experiment with seasonal vegetables or proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp to make this salad your own!
FAQ
- Can I use different types of pasta? Absolutely! While the cheese tortellini provides a wonderful flavor, you can use any pasta shape you love.
- Is this salad suitable for meal prep? Yes, this salad holds up well in the refrigerator for a couple of days. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve for the best texture.
- What can I substitute for balsamic vinegar? If you prefer a different flavor, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can also work nicely in the dressing.
Conclusion
This Roasted Red Pepper and Parmesan Tortellini Salad is a celebration of fresh ingredients and simple preparations. With its colorful composition and delightful flavors, it’s a dish that speaks to the heart of summer dining. Whether enjoyed as a side or a main dish, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. So gather up your fresh ingredients, whip it up, and enjoy every delicious bite!