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15-Minute Tortellini Salad

Zutaten
  

The Base
  • 120 g Tortellini (cheese- or spinach-filled tortellini work best)
  • A small drizzle to keep the pasta from sticking after cooling
The Mix-Ins
  • Cocktail Tomatoes: A handful, halved or quartered.
  • Mozzarella: A small handful of diced mozzarella cubes or mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini).
  • Fresh Basil: A few leaves, torn or roughly chopped.
The Quick Dressing
  • 2 tbsp Extra Native Olive Oil
  • 1 tsp White Balsamic Vinegar: 1 teaspoon (gives a nice, bright tang without overpowering).
  • Garlic: A tiny pinch of garlic powder or a half clove of minced garlic
  • 1/2 tsp Honey Mustard
  • Salt and Pepper: To taste
  • Dried or Fresh Herbs: A pinch of Italian herbs, oregano, or parsley

Method
 

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a small pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 120 g of tortellini and cook according to the package instructions (usually around 3 to 5 minutes for fresh pasta).
  2. Cool Down: Drain the tortellini thoroughly in a colander. Rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool them down quickly.
  3. Prevent Sticking: Toss the cooled tortellini with a tiny splash of olive oil so they stay loose and don't clump together in the lunch container.
  4. Prep the Add-Ins: While the pasta cools, halve the cocktail tomatoes, dice the mozzarella, and tear the fresh basil leaves.
  5. Mix the Dressing: In a small jar or bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, honey mustard, garlic, salt, pepper, and herbs until smooth and well combined.
  6. Combine: In your office meal prep container or school lunchbox, combine the tortellini, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently to coat everything evenly.