Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad

Ingredients and Weight:

• 1 pound Tortellini pasta (uncooked)
• 1 cup halved grape tomatoes
• 1 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 1 cup diced cucumber
• 1/2 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

Preparation Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

12-15 minutes for the pasta

Difficulty Level:

2 (simple)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Cook the tortellini pasta according to package directions and drain.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, grape tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, pepperoncini peppers, feta cheese, Kalamata olives, parsley, and basil.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 450 per serving
• Protein: 20 grams
• Carbohydrates: 60 grams
• Fat: 20 grams

Dish Characteristics:

• Tangy and flavorful
• Light and refreshing
• Perfect for summer gatherings or a light lunch

User Comments:

• "This pasta salad is delicious! The flavors are so well-balanced and refreshing."
• "I love the addition of the pepperoncini peppers; they give the salad a nice kick."
• "This salad is so easy to make and it's always a crowd-pleaser."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• If you can't find pepperoncini peppers, you can substitute banana peppers or roasted red peppers.
• If you're looking for a vegetarian version of this salad, you can omit the Kalamata olives.
• This pasta salad can be served warm or cold. If you're serving it cold, make sure to let it chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.