Looking for a quick and delicious meal that’s bursting with flavor? Say hello to the Spinach Artichoke and Tuna Tortellini Salad! This vibrant dish combines tender tortellini, fresh spinach, and savory artichoke hearts, all brought together with flaky tuna and a zesty dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or a satisfying dinner, this salad is not only easy to prepare but also a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. Ready to elevate your mealtime? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that promises to impress your family and friends!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Tortellini, cooked
- Spinach, fresh
- Artichoke hearts, chopped
- Tuna, drained
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by cooking the tortellini according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Cook until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
- While the tortellini is cooling, prepare the remaining ingredients. Wash the fresh spinach leaves thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels. Roughly chop the spinach into bite-sized pieces.
- Drain the tuna completely, using a fine-mesh strainer to remove excess liquid. Break the tuna into small, flaky pieces using a fork.
- Chop the artichoke hearts into small, uniform pieces. If using canned artichoke hearts, drain and pat dry before chopping.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, chopped spinach, artichoke hearts, and flaked tuna.
- Create a simple dressing by whisking together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a small bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the salad, allowing it to slightly melt into the warm ingredients.
- Let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes to allow flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature. Can be garnished with additional Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like basil or parsley if desired.
Tips
- Cook the Tortellini Perfectly: Be sure to follow the package instructions carefully to achieve that perfect al dente texture. A little extra cooking time can turn your tortellini mushy, so keep an eye on it!
- Chill for Flavor: Allow the salad to sit for 5-10 minutes after mixing in the dressing. This resting time lets the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
- Customize Your Greens: Feel free to mix in other greens like arugula or kale for added texture and flavor. This recipe is versatile, so get creative with your leafy additions!
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality tuna and fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. Fresh ingredients can make a significant difference in the taste of your salad.
- Add a Crunch: For an extra crunch, toss in some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds just before serving. They add a delightful texture contrast!
- Serve It Your Way: This salad can be served chilled, at room temperature, or even warmed up slightly. Experiment to find your favorite way to enjoy it!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
