Sarasota's Simple Shrimp and Cheese Tortellini Salad
Recipe: #10466
September 06, 2013
"Simple and quick to prepare! It has a very light fresh dressing - compared to a heavier mayonnaise based salad. One note; I really prefer to cook my own shrimp; but, it isn't necessary. You can always use a precooked shrimp if that is all that is available. However, I really like to grill them with a little salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes for a little kick. Serve chilled. It's a great make ahead salad - perfect for lunch, dinner, potluck, or a BBQ. Make sure to purchase a store bought FRESH tortellini; and, use fresh herbs. This is really what makes this recipe delicious."
Original is 3-4 servings
Ingredients
- SALAD
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- MUSTARD VINAIGRETTE
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Nutritional
- Serving Size: 1 (439.1 g)
- Calories 773.9
- Total Fat - 50.9 g
- Saturated Fat - 22.4 g
- Cholesterol - 285.7 mg
- Sodium - 2113.5 mg
- Total Carbohydrate - 10 g
- Dietary Fiber - 1.2 g
- Sugars - 3.6 g
- Protein - 67.8 g
- Calcium - 1642.1 mg
- Iron - 1.1 mg
- Vitamin C - 11.5 mg
- Thiamin - 0.1 mg
Step by Step Method
Step 1
Note: I mentioned cooking my own shrimp vs buying precooked shrimp - Well, I think this really adds a lot to this dish, but it isn't necessary. I usually cook them on my grill or a grill pan. I like to peel, devein, and remove the tails; but, some prefer to leave the tails on - that is a personal preference. I simply season with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Cook, then let cool. I prefer to serve them whole in the salad. Remember, DO NOT over cook your shrimp. As soon as they turn pink, and begin to curl ... they are done.
Step 2
Dressing ... Add all the ingredients to a small bowl or measuring cup; and, mix to combine. Refrigerate until ready to use. I actually love to use a small tupperware container; simply add all the ingredients, and shake!
Step 3
Tortellini ... Cook the tortellini in plenty of salted water according to package directions. Then, drain, rinse, and add to a serving bowl to cool.
Step 4
Finish ... Add the cooked and cooled shrimp, tomatoes, onion, parsley, basil, and most of the vinaigrette to the serving bowl along with the tortellini; then, toss to combine. The extra vinaigrette will be added before serving. Season with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 30 minutes before serving. Remember to add the leftover vinaigrette right before serving.
Step 5
Serve and ENJOY! ... It is simple, easy, and delicious. Serve with some crusty bread for a quick weeknight dinner. And, this also makes a fantastic dish to take to a BBQ or potluck.
Tips
No special items needed.
Editorial Notes
The ingredient tips, suggestions, variations, facts, questions and answers below are not edits to the original author's recipe. They are not meant to imply any change would improve the recipe. They're offered for convenience, alternative ideas, and points of interest. If you have any comments about them, please post in the Help & Ideas forum.
- When selecting shrimp, look for those that are plump and have a mild, sweet smell.
- When purchasing tortellini, make sure to check the expiration date and that it is labeled as fresh.
- Shrimp - For a vegetarian option, swap out the shrimp for 1 block of extra firm tofu, cubed. This will provide a similar texture and protein as the shrimp, while still keeping the dish vegetarian.
- Balsamic Vinegar - For a slightly different flavor, try swapping out the balsamic vinegar for white wine vinegar. This will provide a less sweet flavor, while still adding a nice acidity to the dressing.
Cajun Shrimp and Cheese Tortellini Salad Replace the red pepper flakes with cajun seasoning and add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the dressing. Grill the shrimp with the cajun seasoning and olive oil, salt, and pepper. Replace the parsley and basil with cilantro.
Garlic Bread: This garlicky, buttery side dish pairs perfectly with Sarasota's Simple Shrimp and Cheese Tortellini Salad. It is a great way to add a bit of crunch and flavor to the meal. Plus, it's easy to make and can be prepared in minutes!
Caesar Salad: This classic salad pairs perfectly with Sarasota's Simple Shrimp and Cheese Tortellini Salad. It's a great way to add a bit of crunch and freshness to the meal, and it's easy to make with just a few ingredients. Plus, the combination of the two salads is sure to be a hit with everyone!
FAQ
Q: How long should I refrigerate the salad before serving?
A: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will ensure that the flavors blend together and that the salad is chilled.
Q: What ingredients should I use to make the salad?
A: Start with a base of lettuce, such as romaine or iceberg. Add in your favorite vegetables, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions. For a bit of crunch, add in some nuts or croutons. Top with a light dressing of your choice.
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Fun facts:
The city of Sarasota, where this recipe originates from, is known for its celebrity residents, such as Oprah Winfrey, Burt Reynolds, and Stephen King.
Tortellini is a traditional Italian dish, and is said to have been inspired by the navel of Venus, the Roman goddess of love and beauty.