Ingredients
Scale
- 1 package (20 oz) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved
- ½ cup black olives, sliced
- ½ cup thinly sliced red onion
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- ½ cup Italian dressing (homemade or store-bought)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: roasted red peppers, pepperoni slices, or cucumber for extra flavor
Instructions
- Begin by cooking the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta quickly. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, black olives, and red onion. Mix gently to distribute all ingredients evenly.
- Pour the Italian dressing over the pasta mixture. Toss thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated with the flavorful dressing. For a more intense flavor, let the salad marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes—this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil over the top. For added flavor or color, consider including sliced roasted red peppers or pepperoni slices. Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best taste.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or toasted pine nuts.
- Best if served chilled, but can be enjoyed at room temperature.
- Can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 25mg