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Loaded Spinach Tortellini Salad

Loaded Spinach Tortellini Salad

  • Author: Mary
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free (with gluten-free tortellini)

Description

Loaded Spinach Tortellini Salad is a vibrant, flavorful, and easy-to-make salad combining tender cheese-filled tortellini with fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, red onion, fresh mozzarella balls, basil leaves, and a tangy Italian dressing. Perfect for quick lunches, potlucks, or weeknight dinners, this dish offers a delightful mix of textures, colors, and tastes that can be customized to your preference and enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 12 oz cheese tortellini
  • 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls, drained
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 1/3 cup Italian dressing

Instructions

  1. Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
  2. Prep the Veggies and Cheese: While the tortellini cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes, thinly slice the red onion, pit and chop the Kalamata olives if desired, tear fresh basil leaves, and drain fresh mozzarella balls.
  3. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together the cooled tortellini, fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, olives, red onion, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves evenly.
  4. Dress and Toss: Pour the Italian dressing over the salad and toss well to coat all ingredients thoroughly without overdressing.
  5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Stir gently before serving.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook the tortellini; keep it al dente for ideal texture.
  • Use fresh spinach and fresh mozzarella for the best flavor and texture.
  • Make the salad a few hours in advance to allow flavors to develop.
  • Customize the dressing by preparing your own vinaigrette if desired.
  • Adjust saltiness and acidity by tasting before serving.
  • Drain and cool tortellini thoroughly to prevent sogginess.
  • Add proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
  • Substitute vegan tortellini and dairy-free cheese for a vegan version.
  • Consider adding extra veggies or nuts for crunch and added nutrition.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 580 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg

Keywords: spinach tortellini salad, cheese tortellini salad, Italian pasta salad, potluck salad, easy pasta salad, vegetarian salad, summer salad, gluten-free pasta salad

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Find it online: https://marysplate.com/loaded-spinach-tortellini-salad/