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Stunning plated serving of Southwestern Tortellini Pasta Salad, a chef-tested recipe by Chef Jorj Morgan.
Jorj Morgan

Southwestern Tortellini Pasta Salad

Sunny flavors define this Southwestern Tortellini Pasta Salad, where tender cheese tortellini, savory salami, and sharp white cheddar mingle with bright tomatoes and sweet roasted peppers. A zesty, herb-infused lime vinaigrette coats every bite, refreshed to a glossy finish just before serving.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Wait Time (Chilling) 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Side Dish, Salad
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

The Pasta & Proteins
  • 1 pound cheese tortellini
  • ½ pound hard salami, cut into ½-inch chunks
  • ½ pound sharp white American cheddar cheese, cut into ½-inch chunks
  • 1 7-ounce jar roasted red peppers, drained and chopped
  • 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
The Acid & Aromatics
  • ¼ cup red wine vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice, about 1 medium lime
  • ¼ small red onion, peeled and chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, peeled
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
  • ¼ cup fresh spinach leaves
The Oil & Seasoning
  • ¼ to ½ cup olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon coarse black pepper

Method
 

The Pasta Prep
  1. Cook the tortellini according to the package directions.
  2. Rinse in cold water and place into a large bowl. Add the chunks of salami and cheese, and the roasted pepper and tomato halves.
Blend the Vinaigrette
  1. Place the red wine vinegar, lime juice, red onion, garlic, honey, cilantro and spinach leaves into the bowl of a food processor and blender.
  2. Pulse to combine.
  3. Add the olive oil through the feed tube, a little at a time. The vinaigrette should be thick and completely emulsified.
  4. Season with salt and pepper.
Toss & Chill
  1. Pour ¾ of the dressing over the pasta and toss to combine.
  2. Chill the salad until you are ready to serve.
  3. Bring to room temperature, and toss with the remaining salad dressing for maximum flavor explosion!!!