Herbed Cheese Tortellini
Herbed cheese tortellini is a flavorful cold pasta dish featuring fresh herbs, tomatoes, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette, perfect for summer lunches or light dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions.
- Allow the cooked tortellini to cool completely.
- Chop the tomatoes, purple onion, parsley, and basil, then mix them together in a bowl.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, finely chopped garlic, balsamic vinegar, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the chopped vegetables and toss to combine.
- Marinate the mixture for several hours or overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use fresh herbs and let the dressing marinate for at least an hour before tossing it with the tortellini. If you don't have balsamic vinegar, a splash of red wine vinegar works well as a substitute. You can also add some grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness, enhancing this dish's Italian flair.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the herbed cheese tortellini as a refreshing main dish or as a side alongside grilled chicken or fish. It pairs beautifully with Mozzarella With Tomatoes for a delightful summer meal. Consider adding a light salad or crusty bread to round out the meal and make it satisfying.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the tortellini in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but the flavors will continue to develop as it sits.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Herbed Cheese Tortellini contains roughly 628 calories, with 29g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (144% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 40g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 use frozen tortellini for this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen tortellini. Just cook it according to the package instructions, ensuring it's fully cooked and heated through before cooling it for the salad. This makes the recipe convenient and quick to prepare.
What other vegetables can I add to this dish?
Feel free to add other seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach to enhance the dish. Just chop them finely and mix them in with the herbs and dressing for added color and nutrition.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This herbed cheese tortellini salad is perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld together, making it an ideal choice for quick lunches or picnics.
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).