TORTELLINI SALAD

Posted by Lori~

Recently I attended a 2nd birthday party for one of Mur-man's friends.  They did a color themed art party and had an amazing food spread (unfortunately, I do not have photos to share).  However, I did request a recipe that was OUT OF THIS WORLD!  Thank you Janelle for sharing!

Supplies needed for Tortellini Salad:
2, 9 oz. packages refrigerated cheese-filled tortellini
16 asparagus spears (trimmed and cut into 1 inch pieces)
1 large yellow sweet pepper cut into 1/2 inch pieces
1 1/2 tsp finely shredded lemon peel
1/3 cup lemon juice
1/4 cup olive oil or salad oil
1 Tbsp Dijon-style mustard
1 tsp sugar
1/4 tsp salt
1 clove garlic minced
1/2 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup sliced green onions
1/4 cup chopped almonds (toasted)

Cook Tortellini according to package directions. 

Add asparagus and pepper (I already had green pepper in the fridge) during the last minute of cooking.

Drain and rinse with cold water.   Now it is time to create your dressing.  In a screw top jar, combine lemon peel, lemon juice, oil, mustard, sugar, salt, and garlic.  Cover and shake well.

Toss your dressing with the Tortellini and vegetables.  Cover and refrigerate for up to 8 hours.  Just prior to serving, stir in cheese, green onions, and nuts.  

Let stand for 10 minutes, serve, and enjoy!