leap: Tortellini Salad Days...

We showed the house on Saturday. The day was absolutely spectacular with a slight breeze and brilliant blue sky. Our 25-year old son, AJ, was here with three friends for the long weekend, and we all agreed no one would be able to resist the light-filled house and ,gorgeous view. Clearly we were more than a tad biased, as there has been no word from them or their realtor, since they drove out of the driveway. I have to admit, I never dreamed we wouldn't sell the house this summer - even in the current economy - and I'm working hard to come to terms with the fact that there's now a good chance we'll be here another winter.

In spite of the disappointing showing, it was a great weekend. The weather cooperated and having four 25-year old guys in the house to feed and enjoy, kept us distracted and busy. One of the favorite dishes of the weekend was the Tortellini Salad. Someone gave me the recipe when our oldest son Adam, now 27, was an infant. I have modified it over the years and it is a requisite part of any Frucci Family summer get-together. Hope you enjoy it as much as we do!

Tortellini Salad

Note: This salad is best when made the day before and allowed to ‘marinate’ overnight in the refrigerator.

Salad:
2 pounds fresh cheese tortellini – 2 20-ounce packages work fine
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
1 cucumber, peeled, seeded and diced (peel, cut in half lengthwise and use melon baller to scoop out seeds, then dice)
1/2 red onion, finely chopped OR 1 bunch scallions, chopped
1 large red bell pepper OR 2 tomatoes, seeded and chopped

Dressing:
2/3 cup olive oil
1/2 cup tarragon OR white balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
3 tablespoons Pommery (also known as ‘whole grain Dijon) mustard
2 tsp. freshly ground pepper
2 tsp. salt
2 cloves garlic, minced
3-4 dashes Tabasco

1. In large jar mix all dressing ingredients. Shake well and set aside.