Pasta Salad Secrets

Pasta Salad Secrets

Ingredients:
1 cup white (plain) cheese-filled tortellini
1 cup green (spinach) cheese-filled tortellini
½ cup Italian salad dressing
1 cup cut green beans
1 tablespoon red onion, chopped
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup Roma tomatoes, seeded and chopped
¼ cup ranch salad dressing
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Directions:
Salt and pepper, to taste
1. Cook the pasta al dente according to package directions. Drain pasta.
While it is still warm, toss in a deep bowl with ¼ cup Italian salad
dressing. Allow to cool at room temperature 30 minutes, stirring
occasionally.
2. Meanwhile, blanch the beans, then place in a bowl with the onion and
remaining ¼ cup Italian dressing; stir to coat. Marinate about 30
minutes at room temperature, stirring occasionally.
3. Cover both bowls and refrigerate. Allow the pasta and the vegetables
to marinate separately at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. When ready to serve, add the beans and dressing to the pasta, along
with the tomato and bacon. Add the ranch dressing and parsley, and
toss. Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.