Cold Pasta/Shrimp/Spinach Salad

Cheesy tortellini mixed with colorful vegetables, shrimp, and a tasty dressing. A great side or main dish salad.

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Ingredients:

• Salad
• 1 lb purchased cheese tortellini  
• 2 sweet (red or yellow) bell peppers cut in thin strips  
• 1 ripe tomato, diced
• 1/3 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 3 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds    
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 2 cups baby salad shrimp
• Dressing
• 1/3 cup canola  oil  
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil  
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice  
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce  
• 2 garlic cloves, minced  
• 1/2 teaspoon salt  
• 1/3 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Dash of red pepper flakes

Method

Combine dressing ingredients in a jar and shake to combine (or whisk together in a small bowl). Cook tortellini according to package directions, being careful not to overcook. Drain pasta and transfer to a large serving bowl. Stir the bell pepper, tomato and onion into the tortellini. Pour half of the dressing over the salad and toss well. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours. Just before serving, stir the spinach into the tortellini mixture. Mix the red pepper flakes with the remaining dressing, shake and pour on torellini salad. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and toss well.

Notes: To toast sesame seeds, place in a skillet and toast over medium heat until they begin to pop and smoke which usually takes about 2 minutes.

Number of servings: 4

Submitted By: BasketCaseDiva
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