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summer tortellini salad with arugula 479316464

Summer Tortellini Salad with Arugula and California Avocado

A bright summer pasta salad with cheese tortellini, arugula, avocado, corn, tomatoes, cucumber, and a Meyer lemon vinaigrette.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Pasta, Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 10 ounces cheese tortellini about 283 g (1 package)
  • 1 large ripe California avocado diced
  • 1 cup corn kernels fresh or thawed frozen
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup diced cucumber about 1 small cucumber
  • 2 cups baby arugula lightly packed
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves torn
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese about 2 ounces / 56 g
For the Meyer Lemon Vinaigrette
  • 1/4 cup California extra-virgin olive oil 60 ml
  • 2 tablespoons fresh Meyer lemon juice zest the lemon before juicing
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning or 1 teaspoon dried oregano plus 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 2 teaspoons Meyer lemon zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper freshly cracked
  • 1 pinch cayenne pepper or chili flakes

Method
 

  1. Cook the tortellini according to the package directions, then drain and rinse with cool water to stop the cooking. While the pasta cooks, prep the vegetables.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced avocado, corn, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, baby arugula, basil, and Parmesan cheese.
  3. In a small bowl or liquid measuring cup, whisk together the olive oil, Meyer lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, Italian seasoning, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and cayenne. Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture.
  4. Add the cooled tortellini and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, a splash of lemon juice, or a pinch of cayenne before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 47gProtein: 14gFat: 27gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 23mgSodium: 640mgFiber: 6gSugar: 12g

Notes

Leftovers keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days; note that avocado will oxidize and turn brown as time passes, so stir before serving.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.
If making ahead, add the avocado and arugula just before serving to keep them fresh.
Swap the basil for extra arugula or add grilled chicken for more protein.
For a vegan option, use a dairy-free pesto tortellini or omit the Parmesan and use a vegan alternative.
Frozen corn works great; just thaw and pat dry before using.

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