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As the sun shines brighter and temperatures rise, there’s nothing quite like a chilled salad to bring joy to your dining table. Enter the Chilled Italian Delight Cold Tortellini Salad—a dish that captures the essence of summer with its vibrant colors and refreshing flavors. Easy to prepare, this salad is the quintessential option for warm days, potlucks, and casual family dinners.

Easy Cold Tortellini Salad

Beat the heat with a refreshing Chilled Italian Delight Cold Tortellini Salad! This vibrant dish brings together tender tortellini, creamy mozzarella, and crisp vegetables for a burst of flavor in every bite. Perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or a light family dinner, this salad is easy to prepare and packed with nutrients. Discover how to elevate your culinary skills with simple ingredients and versatile variations that cater to all tastes. Enjoy a taste of summer on your plate!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked tortellini (cheese or meat-filled)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

½ cup bell pepper, diced (red or yellow for sweetness)

½ cup black olives, sliced

1 cup mozzarella balls, halved

½ cup fresh basil, chopped

¼ cup red onion, finely chopped

½ cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: 1 teaspoon dried oregano for extra flavor

Instructions
 

Prepare the Tortellini - Start by cooking the tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and to cool them quickly.

    Chop the Vegetables - While the tortellini is cooling, dice the cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Halve the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls. Slice the black olives.

      Combine Ingredients - In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled tortellini, chopped cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, black olives, mozzarella balls, and red onion.

        Dress the Salad - Pour the Italian dressing over the combined ingredients. Add the chopped fresh basil and season with salt, pepper, and optional dried oregano to enhance the flavor.

          Toss Gently - Using a spatula or large spoon, gently toss everything together until well combined and the tortellini is evenly coated with the dressing.

            Chill - Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together (overnight is even better!).

              Serve - Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or a light main course.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 45 min | 6 servings