Bruschetta Tortellini Pasta Salad
Savor the taste of summer with Bruschetta Tortellini Pasta Salad! 
August is a special time of the year. The weather is perfect, the days are still long, the harvest is in full swing. After a morning run in Forest Park, I visited the University City farmer’s market. The abundance of rainbow-colored, various-shaped tomatoes from Biver Farms in Edwardsville, IL, paired with fresh basil from Vested Urban Farms, was a Missouri summertime dream I couldn't resist.
Packed with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, this dish is as delicious as it is good for you. Enjoy the skin-boosting benefits of lycopene-rich tomatoes and antioxidant-packed basil.1,2 Plus, garlic adds a flavorful punch while supporting immune health as we ease into the fall season.3
Hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but for an extra protein and veggie boost, pair it with grilled chicken or salmon and a side salad. A quick and healthy weeknight dinner that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished. Swap fresh garlic, tomatoes, and basil for dried herbs and canned diced tomatoes to make an equally tasty dish.
Bruschetta Tortellini Pasta Salad
Yields: 6 servings Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 package (12 ounces) cheese tortellini
- 2 cloves garlic minced OR 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, roughly chopped OR 2 tablespoons dried basil
- 2 cups chopped tomatoes, any kind OR a can of diced tomatoes
- Optional: 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Bring a heavily salted pot of water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions.
2. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, add the minced garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, fresh basil, and chopped tomatoes. Mix and set aside as the water boils and the pasta cooks.
3. When the pasta has finished cooking, use a slotted spoon to transfer it directly from the pot to the bowl with the bruschetta.
4. Mix everything in the bowl. Let sit for about 5 minutes to absorb the flavors and thicken. The thickness of the sauce may vary based on the tomatoes.
5. Serve with extra basil and the optional shredded parmesan cheese.
Nutrition Information: Yields 6 servings, Serving Size: 1 cup, Calories: 300, Fat: 16 grams, Carbohydrates: 34 grams, Protein: 9 grams, Fiber: 5 grams. Add 28 calories and 3 grams of protein per serving if using 1/2 cup shredded parmesan.
**NOTE** Nutritional information for each recipe is calculated using advanced software and comprehensive food databases. Actual nutrient values may vary based on specific ingredient amounts, types, and brands.
References:
1. Bin-Jumah MN, Nadeem MS, Gilani SJ, et al. Lycopene: A Natural Arsenal in the War against Oxidative Stress and Cardiovascular Diseases. Antioxidants (Basel). 2022;11(2):232. doi:10.3390/antiox11020232
2. Michalak M. Plant-Derived Antioxidants: Significance in Skin Health and the Ageing Process. Int J Mol Sci. 2022;23(2):585. doi:10.3390/ijms23020585
3. Ansary J, Forbes-Hernández TY, Gil E, et al. Potential Health Benefit of Garlic Based on Human Intervention Studies: A Brief Overview. Antioxidants (Basel). 2020;9(7):619. doi:10.3390/antiox9070619
