Easy Tortellini Salad 🥗🍅

This vibrant and flavorful tortellini salad is not only a breeze to make but also perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or light dinners. The mix of cheese-filled pasta, fresh veggies, and zesty dressing creates a delightful combination that's sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, making your meal prep super easy!

Ingredients

For the salad

• 1 (8 ounce) package dried spinach tortellini
• 1 (8 ounce) package dried three-cheese tortellini
• 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
• 1 (6 ounce) jar marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 1 (6 ounce) can sliced black olives, drained
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup grated carrots

For the dressing

• 1 1/2 cups oil and vinegar dressing (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

1. Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring it to a rolling boil. Stir in the spinach and three-cheese tortellini, then return to a boil.
2. Cook the pasta uncovered, stirring occasionally, until cooked through but still slightly firm, about 10 to 11 minutes.

🥄 Remember to taste the pasta for doneness! You want a perfect "al dente" texture for the best bite.

3. Drain the tortellini well and allow it to cool.
4. In a large bowl, toss together the cooled tortellini, grape tomatoes, artichoke hearts, olives, red onion, carrots, and dressing.
5. Cover and refrigerate until chilled, at least 3 hours or overnight to let the flavors meld together.

🧊 For an added flavor boost, try marinating the tortellini in the dressing for an hour before mixing it with the veggies!

Variations

• Add Protein: Toss in some cooked and shredded chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for an extra protein punch! 💪
• Vegetarian Delight: Keep it simple and vegetarian by adding more colorful veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or radishes for crunch.
• Pasta Option: Use other shapes of pasta like penne or fusilli if tortellini isn't available. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary.
• Herb Infusion: Add chopped fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or dill for a refreshing twist! 🌿

This tortellini salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, and with all the possibilities for customization, you can make it your own every time! Enjoy!