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At the heart of this dish lies fresh cheese tortellini, an Italian pasta shaped like little pillows filled with a creamy cheese mixture. Tortellini is traditionally made with a pasta dough that’s rolled thin, filled, and then folded into a distinctive shape. When it comes to this recipe, opting for fresh tortellini over dried varieties is key. Fresh tortellini cooks quickly and has a tender, delicate texture that adds depth to the dish.

Cold Tortellini Salad

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of summer with the Chilled Garden Tortellini Delight, a refreshing pasta salad perfect for any warm weather occasion. This delightful dish combines creamy cheese-filled tortellini with a colorful medley of fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers. Tossed in a zesty dressing, it's not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrition. Ideal for picnics or barbecues, this recipe is a quick and easy option to impress your guests.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz fresh cheese tortellini

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced

1 cup sweet corn, cooked and cooled

1/2 cup bell pepper (any color), diced

1/3 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

1/4 cup lemon juice

1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

1 tsp garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions
 

Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fresh cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, typically about 3-5 minutes. Once floating, they are usually done. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

    Prepare the Vegetables: While the tortellini is cooking, wash and chop all the vegetables: halving the cherry tomatoes, dicing the cucumber and bell pepper, slicing the red onion, and chopping the fresh basil.

      Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.

        Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, sweet corn, bell pepper, Kalamata olives, and chopped basil.

          Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the tortellini and vegetable mixture. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated.

            Chill: Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

              Serve: Before serving, toss again and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, if using. Enjoy your Cold Tortellini Salad as a refreshing side dish or a light main course!

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