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Are you ready for a dish that’s not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes? Tortellini and Broccoli Salad is your answer! Bursting with flavor, vibrant colors, and healthy ingredients, this salad is the perfect side dish for any occasion or a light meal on its own. With tender tortellini, crisp broccoli, and a zesty dressing, this salad brings together the best of both worlds: comfort food and fresh produce. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
A Salad That Stands Out
I’ve always loved salads, but they can sometimes feel boring or lacking in substance. That’s where this Tortellini and Broccoli Salad comes in! It’s filling enough to be a main dish yet light enough to be a refreshing side. The chewy tortellini pairs perfectly with the crunchy broccoli, creating a satisfying texture that keeps you coming back for more. Plus, it’s super easy to make!
Ingredients
To whip up this vibrant Tortellini and Broccoli Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 8 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini) or cubed mozzarella
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Serving Size
Serves 4
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
20 minutes
Instructions
- Cook the Tortellini: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 3–5 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- Blanch the Broccoli: In the same pot, bring water back to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for about 2 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and immediately transfer to an ice bath to keep them vibrant and crisp.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Combine the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, blanched broccoli, cherry tomatoes, red onion, mozzarella balls, and grated Parmesan cheese. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients.
- Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the dressing to soak into the tortellini and broccoli.
- Garnish: Just before serving, garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Tortellini and Broccoli Salad is not just about great taste; it’s also about versatility. It’s perfect for potlucks, summer barbecues, or as a refreshing side dish for grilled meats. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout that everyone will enjoy.
Make It Your Own
Feel free to customize this salad! You can add other veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers, swap the dressing for a pesto or a creamy alternative, or even toss in some grilled chicken for added protein. The possibilities are endless!
