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Chilled Tortellini Delight is more than just a recipe; it’s a refreshing dish that perfectly balances flavors and textures, making it an ideal choice for warm days or gatherings. This versatile salad combines tender cheese tortellini with vibrant vegetables, creamy mozzarella, and a zesty dressing, resulting in a meal that's both satisfying and visually appealing. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a picnic, or simply looking for a light yet fulfilling dinner option, this dish offers a delightful experience for the palate.

Easy Cold Tortellini Salad

Discover a refreshing twist on traditional pasta with Chilled Tortellini Delight, the perfect dish for warm days and gatherings. This vibrant salad features tender cheese tortellini tossed with fresh vegetables, creamy mozzarella, and a zesty dressing, resulting in a meal that's both satisfying and visually stunning. Ideal for picnics or summer barbecues, this versatile recipe is easy to prepare and delivers a delightful burst of flavors with every bite. Bring a taste of Italy to your table with this flavorful salad that’s sure to impress!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/2 cup black olives, sliced

1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved (bocconcini)

1/3 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Cook the Tortellini: Set a large pot of water over high heat. Once boiling, generously salt the water and add the tortellini. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically 3-5 minutes for fresh tortellini and 7-10 minutes for frozen. Drain the tortellini in a colander and immediately rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process and cool them down.

    Prepare the Vegetables: While the tortellini cools, wash and chop the fresh vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and red bell pepper, finely chop the red onion, and slice the black olives. Also, halve the fresh mozzarella balls if using large ones.

      Make the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, add the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, a pinch of salt, and a few cracks of black pepper. Whisk vigorously until the dressing is well combined and emulsified. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

        Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the cooled tortellini with the prepared vegetables, olives, mozzarella, and chopped basil. Use a spatula to fold everything together without breaking the tortellini.

          Dress the Salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the tortellini salad. Carefully toss the salad using a large spoon or spatula, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.

            Chill and Serve: Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes to enable the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve the salad cold as a delightful side dish or light main course.

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

                - Presentation Tips: Serve the salad in a large, colorful bowl garnished with additional fresh basil leaves on top for a pop of green, or arrange on individual plates with a drizzle of extra balsamic glaze for an elegant touch.