Ingredients
· 1 pound good-quality frozen cheese tortellini, vegetable-filled tortellini, or tofu tortellini
· 1 cup unthawed frozen green peas
· 2 cups finely chopped fresh broccoli florets
· 10- or 12-ounce jar roasted red peppers
Dressing:
· Liquid from the roasted peppers
· 2 tablespoons olive oil, preferably extra-virgin
· 2 tablespoons red-wine vinegar
· 2 teaspoons Dijon-style mustard
· 1/4 cup grated fresh Parmesan cheese, preferably organic, or Parmesan-style soy cheese
· Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
Preparation
Begin cooking the tortellini according to package directions.
Layer the frozen peas and the broccoli florets in a large saucepan with l/2 inch of water. Bring them to a simmer and steam over moderate heat, covered, until the peas are thawed and the broccoli is bright green, about 3 to 4 minutes. Drain the peas and broccoli and rinse them under cool water until they are at room temperature.
In the meantime, drain the roasted peppers, reserving the juices in a small mixing bowl. Cut the peppers into strips. Combine the liquid from the red peppers with the remaining dressing ingredients and mix.
When the tortellini are done, drain them and rinse under cool water until they are at room temperature. Combine them in a mixing bowl with the peas, broccoli, red pepper strips, and dressing. Add the Parmesan cheese and toss well. Season to taste with salt and pepper and toss again.
