Tortellini Salad

[martina_d]

Here is a pasta salad which is sure to be a hit, and is substantial enough to be an entree dish instead of a side, if you like.  It's particularly good in the summer, for hot weather and when fresh herbs and veggies are at their best.  I got this recipe from the back of the Seviroli Cheese Tortellini package, a frozen cheese tortellini we buy at Costco.  Any brand cheese tortellini should do fine, but make sure they are small.

Type Tortellini Salad

16 ounces Seviroli  Cheese Tortellini
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
1 onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
1/2 cup vinegar
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 Tbsp. chopped fresh basil
1 Tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
3 Tbsp. lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 cup crumbled Feta cheese (optional)
3 Tbsp. grated Parmesan cheese

Cook pasta in a large pot of boiling water until al dente.  In a jar, combine vinegar, olive oil, fresh herbs, lemon juice and garlic powder.  Seal and shake until well-mixed.  Season to taste with salt and pepper.  In a large bowl, combine tortellini, peppers, onion and black olives.  Pour dressing over salad and toss to coat.  Cover and chill for at least 4 hours.  Before serving, toss in Feta cheese (optional) and Parmesan cheese.