mmmmm, mondays: tuscan tortellini salad

i helped cook for an event this weekend and this recipe was a hit! it's easy and absolutely delicious. i have to thank my sister-in-law for this one as it's originally hers. enjoy!

prepare the tortellini:

one 48 oz. package of refrigerated, cheese-filled tortellini

cook tortellini according to package directions; drain in a colander. rinse well with cold water.


make salad dressing:

1/4 c. canola oil

1/4 c. chopped white onion (i use frozen chopped onion)

2 T. white wine vinegar

1 T. dried basil

1 T. dried oregano

1 T. dried chives

2 cloves garlic, minced (i use pre-minced garlic in a jar)

1/4 t. salt

1/8 t. pepper

whisk together in a large bowl. add the tortellini. mix well.


add:

2 medium tomatoes, seeded and cut into chunks

12-15 cherry tomatoes, halved

3/4 c. sliced pitted kalamazoo (greek) olives

3/4 c. sliced black olives

3/4 c. finely shredded parmesan cheese

spinach leaves

fresh mozzarella, chopped into bite-sized chunks

pine nuts

this recipe can be made in advance. leave parmesan, pine nuts, fresh mozzarella and spinach leaves until ready to serve.