Looking for a quick, refreshing dish that bursts with flavor and is perfect for any occasion? Look no further than this delightful Chickpea Tortellini Pasta Salad! In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a vibrant salad that combines the heartiness of tortellini with the protein-packed goodness of chickpeas, all while tantalizing your taste buds with fresh basil and juicy cherry tomatoes. Whether you're planning a picnic, a potluck, or simply a delicious weeknight dinner, this recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this irresistible Italian-inspired dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 package tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup mozzarella balls
- 1/4 cup basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water.
- Cook the tortellini according to package instructions, typically 7-9 minutes for fresh pasta or 10-12 minutes for frozen. Ensure pasta is al dente and tender.
- While pasta is cooking, drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly under cold water. Set aside.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes and chop the fresh basil leaves. If using large mozzarella balls, cut them into smaller bite-sized pieces.
- Once tortellini is cooked, drain in a colander and immediately rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, chickpeas, halved cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella pieces.
- Drizzle olive oil over the mixture, then sprinkle chopped basil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Gently toss all ingredients together to ensure even distribution of herbs and dressing.
- Cover and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Serve chilled and enjoy your fresh Chickpea Tortellini Pasta Salad.
Tips
- Choose Your Tortellini Wisely: Fresh tortellini cooks faster and has a delightful texture, but frozen tortellini is just as convenient and can be stored for longer. Pick according to your preference!
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente tortellini to ensure it holds up well in the salad. Remember, it will continue to soften slightly after being rinsed.
- Chill for Maximum Flavor: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to add other ingredients like bell peppers, olives, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. The beauty of this salad is its versatility!
- Dress It Up: For an extra kick, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning to enhance the flavors even more.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made a few hours in advance, making it a perfect option for meal prep or gatherings. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you're ready to serve!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
