Mediterranean Spinach and Tortellini Salad with Egg
This delightful Mediterranean Spinach and Tortellini Salad is perfect for summer gatherings, offering a refreshing blend of flavors and textures. With succulent cheese-filled tortellini paired with vibrant baby spinach, creamy feta, and colorful cherry tomatoes, this dish is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. The hard-boiled eggs add a protein-packed element, making it a well-rounded meal. The bright, zesty dressing, infused with the fresh notes of parsley and oregano, enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients. Prepare in advance to allow the tortellini to marinate, achieving a harmonious blend of tastes. This salad is versatile; adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, and feel free to omit garlic if you prefer a milder flavor. Whether served as a main dish or a side, your guests will rave about this easy-to-make, delicious salad!
N/A
Servings
200
Calories
18
Ingredients
Ingredients
fresh cheese-filled tortellini
1 (package (20 ounces))
baby spinach leaves
1 (lb)
crumbled feta cheese
1 (cup)
red onion
1 (small, sliced)
cherry tomatoes
as needed (halved if desired)
hard-boiled eggs
6 (peeled and quartered)
salt
to taste
black pepper
to taste
olive oil
1/2 (cup)
lemon juice
1/4 (cup)
red wine vinegar
1/4 (cup)
chopped fresh parsley
2 (tablespoons)
dried oregano
1 (teaspoon)
salt
1 (teaspoon or to taste)
black pepper
to taste
fresh minced garlic
1 (teaspoon (optional))
grated parmesan cheese
1 (tablespoon)
sugar
1 (pinch (optional))
Instructions
1
Cook the tortellini: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the tortellini according to package instructions until tender (about 4-5 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Transfer to a large glass bowl.
2
Prepare the dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, parsley, oregano, garlic (if using), salt, and Parmesan cheese. If desired, add a small pinch of sugar and season with black pepper to taste.
3
Combine the tortellini and dressing: Pour the dressing over the cooked tortellini, tossing gently to combine. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or up to 24 hours, to allow the flavors to meld.
4
Assemble the salad: When ready to serve, add the baby spinach, crumbled feta, sliced red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes to the bowl with the tortellini. Toss everything gently until combined.
5
Season to taste: Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
6
Serve: Mound the salad on a large serving platter. Arrange the quartered hard-boiled eggs around the edge for an attractive presentation. Enjoy this vibrant salad fresh!
Nutrition Information
10g
Fat
25g
Carbs
6.7g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mediterranean Spinach and Tortellini Salad with Egg?
It is a refreshing salad featuring cheese-filled tortellini, baby spinach, feta cheese, and hard-boiled eggs tossed in a zesty Mediterranean dressing.
How long does it take to cook the tortellini?
The tortellini should be cooked in boiling salted water for about 4 to 5 minutes or until tender according to package instructions.
What kind of tortellini should I use?
This recipe specifically calls for one 20-ounce package of fresh cheese-filled tortellini.
Can I use dried tortellini instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried tortellini, but be sure to adjust the cooking time as specified on the package.
What ingredients are in the dressing?
The dressing includes olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, parsley, oregano, garlic, salt, Parmesan cheese, sugar, and black pepper.
Is the garlic mandatory in the dressing?
No, the fresh minced garlic is optional and can be omitted if you prefer a milder flavor profile.
How long should the tortellini marinate in the dressing?
For the best flavor, allow the tortellini to marinate in the dressing for at least 4 hours, or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.
When should I add the baby spinach?
Add the baby spinach, along with the feta and other vegetables, just before serving to ensure the greens stay fresh and crisp.
Why do I need to rinse the tortellini under cold water?
Rinsing under cold water stops the cooking process immediately, preventing the pasta from becoming too soft or mushy.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains cheese, eggs, and vegetables but no meat.
How many calories are in a serving of this salad?
Each serving contains approximately 200 calories.
What is the protein content of this salad?
This salad provides about 6.7 grams of protein per serving, largely thanks to the eggs and cheese.
How many eggs are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 6 hard-boiled eggs, which are peeled and quartered for presentation.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tortellini and dressing up to a day in advance; just add the fresh vegetables and eggs right before serving.
What is the best way to serve this salad?
Mound the salad on a large platter and arrange the egg quarters around the edge for an attractive presentation.
Can I substitute the red wine vinegar?
If needed, you can substitute red wine vinegar with white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
What kind of onion works best?
A small red onion, thinly sliced, is recommended for its mild flavor and vibrant color.
How much fat is in this dish?
There are 10 grams of fat per serving.
Can I add sugar to the dressing?
Yes, a small pinch of sugar is optional to help balance the acidity of the lemon and vinegar.
Is this a good dish for summer gatherings?
Absolutely, its refreshing flavors and chilled temperature make it perfect for summer picnics and parties.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Yes, this salad is versatile; feel free to add cucumbers, bell peppers, or olives to suit your taste.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
What cheese is used in the salad topping?
The salad is topped with 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese.
Does the dressing contain Parmesan?
Yes, the dressing includes 1 tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese for extra depth of flavor.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 25 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Is the lemon juice fresh or bottled?
While the recipe doesn't specify, fresh lemon juice is recommended for the brightest flavor in the dressing.
Can I use a different type of greens?
While baby spinach is preferred, you could substitute with arugula or mixed baby greens.
How should the cherry tomatoes be prepared?
The cherry tomatoes can be added as needed and are typically halved for easier eating.
What herbs are used in the dressing?
The dressing uses 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, typical tortellini is made with wheat flour, so this recipe contains gluten.