why make this recipe
Creamy Feta & Avocado Tortellini Salad with Herb Dressing is a delicious and refreshing dish that is perfect for any occasion. It combines the rich flavors of feta and avocado with the tender cheese tortellini, making it satisfying and enjoyable. This salad is not only quick to prepare but also offers a lovely medley of colors and textures. It’s an ideal choice for a light lunch, picnic, or side dish at a gathering.
how to make Creamy Feta & Avocado Tortellini Salad with Herb Dressing
Ingredients
- 10 oz (280 g) cheese tortellini, fresh or refrigerated
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Cook the tortellini according to package instructions.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, diced avocado, crumbled feta, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, chopped parsley, and basil.
- Drizzle the herb dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
- Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
how to serve Creamy Feta & Avocado Tortellini Salad with Herb Dressing
Serve this salad cold or at room temperature. It goes well on its own or as a side dish. You can also add some grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein if you like. This dish pairs nicely with a crisp white wine or sparkling water.
how to store Creamy Feta & Avocado Tortellini Salad with Herb Dressing
To store leftovers, keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can stay fresh for up to 2 days. If you notice the avocado starting to brown, you can squeeze a little lemon juice over it to help slow the process.
tips to make Creamy Feta & Avocado Tortellini Salad with Herb Dressing
- Make sure your avocado is ripe for the best flavor and texture.
- Feel free to adjust the herbs based on what you enjoy or have on hand.
- For added crunch, consider adding toasted nuts or seeds.
- If you prefer a creamier dressing, you can mix in some Greek yogurt or sour cream.
variation
You can customize this salad by adding other vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, or spinach. Additionally, swap the feta for goat cheese or leave it out for a dairy-free version.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, frozen tortellini works well. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this salad vegan, use vegan tortellini and omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese option.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
You can prepare the salad in advance, but it’s best to add the avocado and dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh.
