Cold Tortellini-Vegetable Kabobs
Colorful cold tortellini-vegetable kabobs combine cheese-filled tortellini, artichoke hearts, and fresh vegetables, marinated in a tangy basil-vinegar dressing—perfect for summer gatherings and light lunches.
Ingredients
- 1 tsp. cornstarch ⓘ
- 1 tsp. dried basil ⓘ
- 1 tsp. dried oregano ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. sugar
- 1/2 tsp. dry mustard ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. onion powder ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. garlic powder ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 2/3 c. water ⓘ
- 1/2 c. cider vinegar
- 1 (14 oz.) can artichoke hearts ⓘ
- 24 cooked small cheese tortellini with cheese
- 24 cooked small cheese tortellini ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine cornstarch, dried basil, dried oregano, sugar, dry mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt in a saucepan.
- Slowly stir in water and cider vinegar.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cook for 30 seconds, whisking with a wire whisk.
- Remove from heat and let cool.
- Cut artichoke hearts into quarters.
- Alternate threading tortellini, cherry tomatoes, and artichoke hearts onto 24 (6-inch) skewers.
- Place the skewers in a large baking dish and pour the cooled marinade over them, turning to coat.
- Cover and refrigerate for 5 hours, turning a few times.
- Drain the skewers and arrange on a platter to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your kabobs, consider adding some diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes between the tortellini and artichoke hearts. For a vegan version, substitute the cheese tortellini with a plant-based alternative. If you're short on time, you can use store-bought marinated artichokes instead of plain for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These Cold Tortellini-Vegetable Kabobs make a delightful appetizer or side dish at summer gatherings. They pair beautifully with a refreshing salad, such as a Summer Vegetable Mix or Sliced Tomatoes. For a complete meal, serve alongside grilled meats or as part of a Mediterranean spread featuring hummus and pita.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover kabobs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them later, you can eat them cold straight from the fridge or let them come to room temperature before serving. Avoid reheating, as the tortellini may become mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cold Tortellini-Vegetable Kabobs contains roughly 28 calories, with 1g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 these kabobs ahead of time?
Yes, these kabobs can be prepared a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe, cover, and refrigerate them. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, making them even tastier when served.
What type of cheese tortellini should I use?
You can use any small cheese tortellini available at your grocery store. If you're looking for a different flavor profile, try using spinach or herb-infused tortellini, which will complement the marinade and vegetables nicely.
Can I use different vegetables in the kabobs?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables. Zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes are great options. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even threading on the skewers.
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).