Creamy Avocado & Feta Tortellini Salad with Zesty Dressing

Introduction:
A salad that is creamy, zesty, and packed with delightful textures, the Creamy Avocado & Feta Tortellini Salad with Zesty Dressing is a perfect blend of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. The rich creaminess of the avocado and feta cheese pairs beautifully with the hearty cheese tortellini, while the zesty dressing adds a tangy and refreshing twist. Whether as a light lunch, a side dish at a barbecue, or a picnic treat, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Quick and easy to prepare, it is also loaded with nutritious ingredients that provide a variety of essential vitamins and minerals.

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 12 oz cheese tortellini, cooked and cooled
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts

For the Zesty Dressing:

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 tsp lime zest
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 garlic clove, minced

Directions:

1. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and minced garlic. Set aside.
2. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked and cooled tortellini, diced avocado, feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, red onion, chopped herbs, and toasted pine nuts.
3. Toss & Serve: Drizzle the zesty dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all ingredients.
4. Chill & Enjoy: Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Preparation & Cooking Time:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition Information:

Calories per serving: 480

Benefits:

This salad is packed with nutrients such as healthy fats from the avocado and pine nuts, protein from the feta cheese and tortellini, and antioxidants from the fresh vegetables. It’s a great source of vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C from the lime juice and tomatoes. The fiber content from avocado and tortellini also helps promote digestion and keep you full longer.

Conclusion:

This creamy avocado and feta tortellini salad is a perfect balance of textures and flavors, combining the richness of avocado and feta with the tanginess of the zesty dressing. It is a quick and easy dish to prepare, ideal for a light lunch, dinner, or as a side for your next gathering. Enjoy the burst of fresh ingredients that not only taste amazing but are also packed with essential nutrients!