Lemon Herb Tortellini Salad with Snap Peas -

The Lemon Herb Tortellini Salad with Snap Peas is a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for warm days or as a side for your favorite grilled proteins. It’s loaded with fresh herbs, crunchy snap peas, and colorful tortellini, all drizzled with a zesty lemon herb dressing. This salad not only tantalizes the taste buds but is also quick and easy to make, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or lunch meal prep.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This tortellini salad is perfect for various occasions, from backyard barbecues to picnic lunches. The combination of cheese-filled tortellini and sweet snap peas creates a delightful texture, while the herb dressing brings brightness and depth of flavor. It’s a great option for vegetarians and can easily be customized with additional ingredients like grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein. Plus, the salad can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient dish for meal prep.

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Herb Tortellini Salad with Snap Peas

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and snap peas will greatly enhance the flavor of the salad. Opt for seasonal and high-quality produce whenever possible.

Chill for Flavor: Allowing the salad to chill for 15-20 minutes after tossing it with the dressing enhances the flavors as the ingredients meld together.
Customize with Extra Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or arugula to amp up the nutrition and flavor profile.
Save Leftovers: If you have leftover salad, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature the next day.

Make Ahead: Prepare the dressing in advance and store it separately until you are ready to serve to keep the salad fresh.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious Lemon Herb Tortellini Salad with Snap Peas:

10 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)

1 cup sugar snap peas, trimmed and halved
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill

1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Lemon Herb Dressing:

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 garlic clove, minced

Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Lemon Herb Tortellini Salad with Snap Peas:

Step 1: Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. In the last minute of cooking, add the snap peas. Drain and rinse under cold water to halt the cooking process.

Step 2: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper until combined.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini and snap peas with parsley, dill, basil, and Parmesan cheese.
Step 4: Pour the lemon herb dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to enhance the flavors before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this salad a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you are ready to serve to maintain freshness.

2. What can I add to make the salad more filling?

You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein. Adding nuts or seeds like pine nuts or sunflower seeds also adds crunch and nutrition.

3. How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

4. Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It’s a great option for meal prep as it holds up well and can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

5. Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, frozen tortellini can be used. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package for best results.

Conclusion

The Lemon Herb Tortellini Salad with Snap Peas is an excellent dish that combines lightness with hearty flavor, perfect for a sunny afternoon or as a complement to any meal. Its fresh ingredients and simple preparation make it a family favorite, and the lovely lemon herb dressing only adds to its appeal. Enjoy this dish not just as a salad but as a delightful expression of fresh, vibrant cooking that everyone will love.