This Easy Italian Tortellini Salad is a colorful mix of tasty cheese tortellini, fresh veggies, and zesty Italian dressing. It’s quick to whip up and oh-so-delicious!
This salad is perfect for picnics or just a simple dinner. I love how it tastes even better when made ahead, letting all those flavors come together! Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is the star here. You can also use spinach tortellini for some extra color and nutrients. If you’re looking for gluten-free options, there are gluten-free tortellini made from rice or corn flour.
Cherry Tomatoes: They add a sweet burst of flavor. If they’re not in season, you can use grape tomatoes or even regular diced tomatoes. Fresh tomatoes work best to maintain that crisp texture.
Cucumber: A fresh cucumber gives a nice crunch. If you prefer less water, use a seedless cucumber or substitute it with bell peppers for a similar crunch.
Salami or Pepperoni: I like using salami for its rich flavor, but turkey or chicken salami is a leaner alternative. You can also skip the meat for a vegetarian option or use chickpeas for extra protein.
Italian Dressing: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own dressing with olive oil, vinegar, Italian herbs, and garlic. Store-bought is convenient, but homemade often tastes fresher.
How Do You Ensure Your Tortellini Salad Stays Fresh and Flavorful?
Chilling the salad before serving is a key step. This allows all the ingredients to meld together and develop deeper flavors. For best results:
- Cool the tortellini in cold water as soon as it’s cooked.
- Use fresh ingredients! Make sure your veggies are crisp and colorful.
- Adjust the dressing just before serving if you notice the pasta absorbed it too much. A splash of extra dressing can brighten it all up!
Keeping these tips in mind will make your salad a hit at any gathering!
Easy Italian Tortellini Salad
Ingredients
- 1 (9-ounce) package cheese tortellini, cooked and drained
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup salami or pepperoni, diced
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (or diced mozzarella)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/3 to 1/2 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes before it’s ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by cooking the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Once they are done, drain them and rinse under cold water to cool them down. This will not only stop the cooking process but also keep them nice and chewy!
2. Combine the Fresh Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, gather all your delicious ingredients! Combine the cooled tortellini, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced black olives, diced red bell pepper, diced salami or pepperoni, and the mozzarella balls.
3. Dress it Up:
Pour the Italian dressing over your colorful salad and toss gently! Make sure to coat all the ingredients evenly. This step really brings together all those yummy flavors!
4. Season the Salad:
Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Just a little seasoning can enhance all the natural flavors of your fresh ingredients.
5. Finishing Touch:
Lastly, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top of the salad and give it another gentle toss to mix everything together nicely.
6. Chill the Salad:
Cover your salad with plastic wrap or a lid, and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This waiting time allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, serve your Easy Italian Tortellini Salad cold! It makes a fantastic side dish or a lively main dish. Enjoy this burst of flavors perfect for summer gatherings or cozy dinners!
This salad is super easy to prepare, loaded with fresh flavors, and sure to impress your friends and family any day of the week!
FAQ for Easy Italian Tortellini Salad
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of tortellini?
Absolutely! You can use any small pasta, like fusilli, penne, or farfalle. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.
How long can I store leftovers?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving again to refresh the flavors!
Can I make this salad vegan or vegetarian?
Definitely! You can simply omit the salami or pepperoni and replace the cheese with a vegan alternative. Adding chickpeas or extra veggies can help boost the protein content while keeping it delicious.
What is the best way to serve this salad?
This salad is best served cold, making it a perfect dish for summer picnics or potlucks. You can also pair it with grilled meats or serve it as a light main dish on its own.
