Fresh basil tortellini salad

Basil Tortellini Salad Recipe from Italy

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Fresh basil tortellini salad is a delicious and refreshing dish that is perfect for a summer meal or as a side dish for a barbecue. The combination of tender tortellini, tangy balsamic vinegar, and fragrant basil creates a flavorful and satisfying salad that is sure to please your taste buds.

History

Tortellini is a type of pasta that originated in the Italian region of Emilia-Romagna. It is traditionally made with a filling of meat, cheese, or vegetables, and is often served in a broth or with a sauce. The addition of fresh basil and balsamic vinegar to the tortellini salad gives it a modern twist and adds a burst of flavor to the dish.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) of uncooked dry cheese-filled egg tortellini
0.33 cup of olive oil or vegetable oil
0.25 cup of balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp of chopped fresh basil (or 2 tsp of dried basil)
1 tbsp of grated parmesan cheese
0.13 tsp of pepper
1 green onion, chopped
1 medium carrot, peeled and sliced on the diagonal

How to prepare

Cook the tortellini according to the instructions on the package.
Drain the cooked tortellini and rinse it with cold water.
In a medium bowl, combine the remaining ingredients.
Add the cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss until well combined.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Before serving, toss the tortellini again and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese.

Variations

Add cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweetness.
Substitute the balsamic vinegar with a lemon vinaigrette for a tangy twist.
Add grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant for extra flavor and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the tortellini al dente, as overcooking can make the pasta mushy.

- Rinse the cooked tortellini with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent the pasta from sticking together.

- Refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together and develop.

Serving Suggestions

Fresh basil tortellini salad can be served as a main dish for a light lunch or dinner, or as a side dish for grilled chicken or fish.

Cooking Techniques

Boil the tortellini in a large pot of salted water until al dente.

- Drain and rinse the cooked tortellini with cold water to stop the cooking process.

- Toss the tortellini with the dressing and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of pasta in place of tortellini.

- Substitute the balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.

- Use any type of cheese in place of Parmesan cheese.

Make Ahead Tips

Fresh basil tortellini salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to toss the salad again before serving to refresh the flavors.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the fresh basil tortellini salad with fresh basil leaves or additional Parmesan cheese for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Fresh basil tortellini salad pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of fresh basil tortellini salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave the salad for a few seconds or enjoy it cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of fresh basil tortellini salad contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of fresh basil tortellini salad contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of fresh basil tortellini salad contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of fresh basil tortellini salad contains approximately 10 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Fresh basil tortellini salad is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat and dairy (Parmesan cheese), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Fresh basil tortellini salad is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Fresh basil tortellini salad is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a summer meal or as a side dish for a barbecue. With its tender tortellini, tangy balsamic vinegar, and fragrant basil, this salad is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be cherished. It was a warm summer day, and I was attending a cooking class at a local community center. The class was focused on Italian cuisine, and I was eager to learn new recipes to add to my collection.

As the instructor began to demonstrate how to make fresh basil tortellini salad, I was immediately drawn to the vibrant colors and fragrant aromas of the ingredients. The combination of delicate tortellini, juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and fragrant basil seemed like the perfect summer dish.

I watched intently as the instructor explained each step of the recipe, from cooking the tortellini to assembling the salad. She emphasized the importance of using fresh ingredients and taking the time to chop everything by hand for the best flavor and texture.

After the demonstration was over, we were given the opportunity to try the dish for ourselves. I eagerly took a bite of the salad and was instantly transported to a sunny Italian terrace, surrounded by the sights and sounds of a bustling market. The flavors were bright and refreshing, with the perfect balance of tangy vinaigrette and savory cheese.

I knew then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen. I asked the instructor for a copy of the recipe, and she graciously shared it with me. I carefully tucked it away in my recipe box, knowing that it would be a cherished addition to my collection.

Over the years, I have made this fresh basil tortellini salad countless times for family gatherings, potlucks, and picnics. Each time, it has been met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I have shared it with friends and neighbors, who have all fallen in love with its simple yet elegant flavors.

As I prepared the salad for a family reunion last summer, my granddaughter asked me how I learned to make it. I sat her down at the kitchen table and told her the story of that fateful cooking class and how I knew from the first bite that this recipe would hold a special place in my heart.

I explained to her the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients and taking the time to prepare everything by hand. I showed her how to cook the tortellini to al dente perfection and how to dress the salad with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette.

Together, we chopped the basil and diced the cherry tomatoes, letting the fragrant aromas fill the kitchen. My granddaughter eagerly helped me assemble the salad, carefully mixing in the fresh vegetables and cheese with a gentle hand.

As we sat down to enjoy the salad with our family, I watched with pride as my granddaughter took her first bite. Her eyes lit up with delight as she savored the flavors of the dish, just as I had done so many years ago.

I knew then that this recipe would be passed down through the generations, cherished and loved by my family for years to come. And as I looked around the table at the smiling faces of my loved ones, I knew that the moment I found this recipe would always hold a special place in my heart.