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Loaded Spinach Tortellini Salad

Loaded Spinach Tortellini Salad
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Loaded Spinach Tortellini Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish combining tender cheese tortellini, fresh baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, and fresh basil tossed in a tangy Italian dressing. This quick and easy salad is perfect for lunch, dinner, or gatherings, offering a balanced mix of fresh vegetables, creamy cheese, and zesty flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 12 oz fresh or refrigerated cheese tortellini
  • 4 cups fresh baby spinach, rinsed and dried
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/3 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 1/4 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Add-ins

  • 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts
  • 1 cup grilled chicken breast or shrimp (for protein boost)
  • 1 tbsp red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce (for spicy kick)
  • 2 tbsp toasted almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds (for extra crunch)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Tortellini: Boil the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool and stop the cooking process, keeping the pasta tender yet firm.
  2. Prepare the Fresh Ingredients: Rinse the baby spinach thoroughly and pat dry. Slice the cherry tomatoes in halves and thinly slice the red onions. Chop the fresh basil leaves and have the Kalamata olives ready.
  3. Mix the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, red onions, Kalamata olives, and basil. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly.
  4. Add the Dressing: Pour the Italian dressing over the salad and stir gently to coat all ingredients without making the salad soggy.
  5. Final Touches: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top and add any optional ingredients like toasted pine nuts or sun-dried tomatoes. Serve immediately or chill for enhanced flavor melding.

Notes

  • Cook tortellini just until al dente to maintain perfect texture in the salad.
  • Dry the spinach thoroughly to prevent watering down the dressing.
  • Toss the salad gently to keep tortellini intact and avoid crushing ingredients.
  • Add dressing just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
  • For homemade dressing, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano for a bright alternative.

Nutrition

Keywords: spinach tortellini salad, cheese tortellini salad, Italian salad, easy pasta salad, vegetarian salad, healthy lunch recipe

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