Ingredients
Scale
For the Salad
- 1 (20-ounce) package cheese tortellini (halal-certified)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated or shaved
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ins
- 1/2 cup cooked halal chicken, diced or shredded
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes.
- Drain the tortellini and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow the tortellini to cool completely before assembling the salad.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
- Wash and chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and bell peppers into bite-sized pieces.
- Thinly slice the red onion and slice the Kalamata olives. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Whisk the ingredients until well emulsified, or shake vigorously if using a jar. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, and Kalamata olives.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the salad and toss lightly.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Step 6: Serve or Chill
- Serve the salad immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld together. This salad tastes even better after chilling!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 340 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Fat: 13g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g