Description
Discover the ultimate Tortellini Caesar Salad, a fresh summer side that blends cheese‑filled tortellini, crisp romaine, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a tangy lemon‑Dijon mayo dressing. Topped with grated Parmesan and aromatic basil, this easy 4‑serving dish delivers creamy texture, bright flavor, and a satisfying crunch. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light dinner, offering a restaurant‑quality taste without the fuss. Serve chilled, topped with fresh basil leaves
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces cheese tortellini
- 1 cup romaine lettuce (chopped)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup croutons
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- salt to taste
- fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions; drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and salt until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Top with croutons and garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter dressing
- replace half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. Use gluten‑free croutons for a gluten‑free version. Fresh parsley can substitute basil if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Tortellini Caesar Salad, easy Caesar salad recipe, summer pasta salad, quick pasta side dish, how to make Caesar dressing, cheese tortellini salad, best pasta salad, light lunch ideas, party side dishes, creamy pasta salad