Insalata di pasta con tortellini

Ingredienti

• 20 oz. refrigerated cheese tortellini ((recommend Trader Joe's or Buitoni))
• 9 slices (9 oz). bacon, (cooked, cooled and chopped*)
• 5 oz. arugula ((mature or baby arugula))
• 1 pint grape tomatoes, (halved)
• 1 large red bell pepper, (roasted, cooled and sliced into 1-inch strips)
• 1/3 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 1/2 tsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes ((optional))
• Salt (and black pepper)

Preparazione

1. 1

   Cook tortellini just to al dente according to directions listed on package. Meanwhile line an 18 by 13-inch baking sheet with parchment paper or spray with non-stick cooking spray.

2. 2

   Drain tortellini and spread onto prepared baking sheet to cool completely, about 20 minutes (while the tortellini cooks and cools it's a good time to cook bacon and roast the bell pepper if you haven't already).

3. 3

   For the dressing whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, basil, red pepper flakes and season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. 4

   To a large salad bowl add arugula, cooled tortellini and bacon, grape tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion and parmesan cheese.

5. 5

   Whisk dressing then pour over tortellini mixture and toss to evenly coat. Taste for more salt as needed and serve.