Broccoli Tortellini Salad
A vibrant and refreshing salad combining tender cheese tortellini, crisp broccoli, juicy cherry tomatoes, and briny olives, all coated in a tangy Italian dressing. Garnished with fresh parsley, basil, and Parmesan, this dish is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or quick weeknight dinners, offering a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, broccoli florets, cherry tomatoes, sliced green onion, and olives.
- Add chopped fresh parsley and basil to the salad.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garlic powder.
- Pour Italian dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of ricotta cheese or using a yogurt-based dressing instead of Italian dressing. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked tortellini available in stores. Feel free to swap out broccoli for other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for a different flavor profile. This salad is a great way to use up leftover veggies from other meals.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli Tortellini Salad is perfect as a light lunch or a side dish for dinner. It pairs beautifully with Italian recipes like E-Z Lasagne or can be served alongside grilled chicken for a heartier meal. For added crunch, consider topping it with toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. If you prefer it cold, enjoy it straight from the fridge as the flavors will continue to meld over time.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Tortellini Salad contains roughly 845 calories, with 53g protein, 126g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (171% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (167% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1703mg per serving (74% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a few hours in advance. Just be sure to add the dressing right before serving to keep the tortellini and vegetables fresh. If storing overnight, keep the dressing separate and mix it in just before serving for the best taste.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! The salad is packed with vegetables and cheese, making it a perfect option for vegetarian diets. Ensure that the tortellini you choose is cheese-based and check the Italian dressing for any non-vegetarian ingredients.
Can I customize the ingredients?
Definitely! This salad is very versatile. You can substitute the cheese tortellini with whole wheat or gluten-free varieties. Additionally, feel free to mix in other vegetables like cucumbers or carrots, or add some protein like chickpeas or grilled shrimp for a more filling dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).