Summer MVP Tortellini Caesar Salad Recipe
This Summer MVP Tortellini Caesar Salad is a refreshing and satisfying dish perfect for warm weather. It combines tender fresh tortellini with crisp Romaine lettuce, thinly sliced shallots or red onion, shaved Parmesan, and a generous amount of creamy Caesar dressing. Optional garlicky toasted panko breadcrumbs add a delightful crunch. Ready in just 25 minutes, this salad is an ideal light dinner or a crowd-pleaser at potlucks and parties.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 package (9 ounces) fresh tortellini (any variety; recommend Five Cheese Tortellini)
- 1 head Romaine lettuce (approx. 6 ounces), chopped
- 1 large shallot or ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup shaved Parmesan cheese
- Heaping 1 cup Caesar dressing (such as Homemade Classic Caesar or Quick Anchovy-Free Greek Yogurt Caesar Dressing)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Topping
- ⅓ cup garlicky toasted panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Boil the tortellini: Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Gently add the tortellini and cook according to package directions, stirring occasionally. The tortellini are typically done when they float to the top. Drain and rinse well with cold water to stop the cooking. Set aside to drain completely.
- Toss the salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, chopped Romaine, thinly sliced shallot or red onion, shaved Parmesan, and Caesar dressing. Season with a generous pinch of kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Toss thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Adjust seasoning and add breadcrumbs: Taste the salad and adjust salt and pepper as needed. If using, sprinkle the garlicky toasted panko breadcrumbs on top to add a crunchy texture.
- Serve immediately: This salad is best enjoyed fresh. Serve right away for the best texture and flavor.
- Pairing suggestions: For a heartier meal, serve alongside leftover shredded chicken or your favorite grilled chicken like 5-Ingredient Grilled Lemon Chicken. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or bringing to gatherings.
Notes
- Make sure to cool and drain the tortellini thoroughly to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
- The Caesar dressing can be homemade or store-bought; anchovy-free options are available for a milder flavor.
- Garlicky toasted panko breadcrumbs add great texture but can be omitted for a gluten-free option.
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and presentation.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- This salad is best served immediately but can be refrigerated for up to 1 day; add breadcrumbs just before serving to keep them crunchy.