This refreshing pasta salad combines tender cheese tortellini with artichoke hearts, crisp broccoli, and sweet carrots, all tossed in a zesty balsamic vinaigrette. The blend of creamy cheese, tangy vinegar, and fresh herbs creates a harmonious balance of flavors that holds up beautifully at room temperature, making it an ideal choice for picnics, potlucks, or quick weeknight lunches. It’s vegetarian-friendly, easy to customize, and offers a satisfying mix of textures from the chewy pasta and crunchy vegetables. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for a light yet filling meal that everyone will love.
Pasta Salad (Good for Picnics)
Description
This refreshing pasta salad combines tender cheese tortellini with artichoke hearts, crisp broccoli, and sweet carrots, all tossed in a zesty balsamic vinaigrette. The blend of creamy cheese, tangy vinegar, and fresh herbs creates a harmonious balance of flavors that holds up beautifully at room temperature, making it an ideal choice for picnics, potlucks, or quick weeknight lunches. It&# 226;ÂÂs vegetarian-friendly, easy to customize, and offers a satisfying mix of textures from the chewy pasta and crunchy vegetables. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for a light yet filling meal that everyone will love.Ingredients
Directions
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Cook the cheese tortellini according to package directions until al dente.
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Drain the tortellini and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
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Drain and rinse the artichoke hearts, then cut them into quarters.
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In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
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Add the cooled tortellini, artichoke hearts, broccoli florets, red bell pepper strips, green onions, and sliced carrots to the bowl.
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Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
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Sprinkle with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese, then toss once more.
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Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 129.9kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 7.5g12%
- Saturated Fat 4.5g23%
- Cholesterol 18.5mg7%
- Sodium 165.5mg7%
- Total Carbohydrate 13.4g5%
- Dietary Fiber 6.1g25%
- Sugars 1.9g
- Protein 4.8g10%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Tip: Be cautious with salt in the dressing since the tortellini and Parmesan are already salty.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variation: Substitute asparagus for broccoli for a different seasonal twist.
Serving Suggestion: Serve chilled or at room temperature for best flavor retention.
