Zesty Summer Tortellini Pasta Salad

• •9 oz cheese tortellini
• •1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• •1 English cucumber, diced
• •1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• •0.3 cup red onion, finely diced
• •8 fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
• •0.3 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• •0.5 cup extra virgin olive oil
• •0.3 cup fresh lemon juice
• •2 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• •1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• •1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• •1 clove garlic, minced
• •0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
• •0.5 teaspoon salt
• •0.3 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground

Instructions

1. 1

   Cook the tortellini according to package directions in salted water until al dente. Drain thoroughly and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta. Set aside to drain completely.

2. 2

   While the tortellini cooks, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the English cucumber and yellow bell pepper, and finely dice the red onion. Halve the fresh mozzarella bocconcini.

3. 3

   In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined and emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

4. 4

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced yellow bell pepper, diced red onion, and halved fresh mozzarella balls.

5. 5

   Pour the prepared zesty lemon-herb vinaigrette over the tortellini and vegetable mixture. Add the chopped fresh basil leaves.

6. 6

   Gently toss all ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the dressing. Ensure the tortellini and vegetables are well distributed.

7. 7

   Cover the bowl and refrigerate the Zesty Summer Tortellini Pasta Salad for at least 30 minutes, or preferably 1-2 hours, before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen.

8. 8

   Before serving, give the salad another gentle toss and taste for seasoning. Add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.

Chef's Tips

• 💡For best flavor, ensure the tortellini is completely cooled before mixing with other ingredients and the dressing. This prevents the salad from becoming soggy.
• 💡Don't skimp on the chilling time! Allowing the salad to chill for at least an hour truly lets the flavors develop and creates a more refreshing experience.
• 💡Feel free to customize with other summer vegetables like corn, zucchini, or even grilled asparagus. Adding grilled chicken or shrimp can turn this into an even heartier main course.
• 💡Make sure your fresh basil is added just before the final toss or serving to maintain its vibrant color and fresh aroma.
• 💡If making ahead for several hours or overnight, you might want to reserve a tablespoon or two of the dressing to add right before serving, as the pasta can absorb some of it.