Tortellini Salad With Asparagus and Fresh Basil Vinaigrette

Submitted by ratherbeswimmin

"America's Test Kitchen"

 

• Ready In: 45mins
• Ingredients: 12
• Serves: 10

ingredients

• 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1⁄2 cup chopped fresh basil
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 shallot, minced
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• salt
• pepper
• 1 lb asparagus, tough ends trimmed and sliced thin on the bias
• 2 (9 ounce) packages fresh cheese tortellini
• 1⁄4 cup pine nuts
• 1 pint grape tomatoes or 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 ounce parmesan cheese, grated (about 1/2 cup)

directions

1. Whisk the olive oil, basil, lemon juice, shallot, garlic, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper together in a bowl large enough to hold the salad.
2. Cook the asparagus in 4 quarts boiling water seasoned with 1 tablespoon salt until tender, about 3 minutes.
3. Transfer the asparagus to a colander using a slotted spoon (do not discard the boiling water).
4. Shake out any excess water and toss with the vinaigrette.
5. Return the water to a boil, add the tortellini, and cook until tender, following the package directions.
6. Drain the tortellini thoroughly, then toss while hot with the asparagus and dressing.
7. Refrigerate until chilled, about 30 minutes.
8. Toast the pine nuts in a small skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
9. Just before serving, stir the toasted pine nuts, tomatoes, and Parmesan into the salad and season with salt and pepper.

Reviews

[trishtagariello16]

I've made this three times for different gatherings. Rave reviews!

 

[rfaye451]

Delicious smooth flavor with not too much acidic taste from the vinaigrette. Will make this again for 4th of July celebration. Great for a cookout as it does not have a mayonnaise base to worry about sitting in the heat. My husband loves this recipe.