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Southwest Tortellini Pasta Salad Recipe (Fresh and Flavorful!)

Southwest Tortellini Pasta Salad

Welcome to the delicious world of Southwest Tortellini Pasta Salad! If you’re looking for a vibrant, flavorful dish that can serve as a side or a main meal, this recipe is your go-to option.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: American, Southwestern
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Southwest Tortellini Pasta Salad
  • 12 oz cheese tortellini
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup black beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn canned or frozen
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese cheddar or Mexican blend
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Small Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Spatula or spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 3-5 minutes until they float to the surface. Drain the tortellini in a colander and rinse under cold water to cool them down quickly.
  2. Step 2: While the tortellini is cooking, prepare your vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, rinse and drain the black beans, and dice the red bell pepper and red onion. Chop the fresh cilantro into small pieces.
  3. Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled tortellini, halved cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, diced red bell pepper, diced red onion, chopped cilantro, and shredded cheese. Gently toss the ingredients together until evenly mixed.
  4. Step 4: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
  5. Step 5: Pour the dressing over the tortellini salad mixture. Using a spatula or spoon, gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are coated evenly with the dressing.
  6. Step 6: For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Notes

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last up to 3 days.