Easy Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad with Salami and Mozzarella Recipe

The mouthwatering italian tortellini pasta salad brings together classic Mediterranean flavors in one delightful dish.

Summer picnics demand something special that everyone can enjoy.

Crisp vegetables and tender pasta create a perfect balance of textures.

Cold cuts and creamy cheese add rich, satisfying layers to each bite.

Marinated ingredients infuse extraordinary depth into this simple meal.

Packed with protein and vibrant colors, this recipe promises to become a quick favorite.

Flavor Variations For Tortellini Salad

• Vegetarian Delight: Swap salami with grilled zucchini or roasted eggplant chunks for a meat-free version that keeps the Italian flavor profile intact.
• Gluten-Free Option: Replace cheese tortellini with gluten-free tortellini or quinoa pasta to accommodate those with wheat sensitivities.
• Protein Power Boost: Add cooked chickpeas or white beans to increase protein content and create a more filling meal for health-conscious eaters.
• Mediterranean Remix: Incorporate feta cheese instead of mozzarella and add cucumber for a Greek-inspired variation with a fresh, light approach.

Suggested Pairings For Tortellini Salad

• Picnic Perfect Platter: Spread this colorful salad on a large wooden board with extra salami slices and fresh basil leaves scattered around for a stunning presentation.
• Mediterranean Meal Companion: Pair with crusty Italian bread, grilled vegetables, or a light white wine to enhance the salad's robust flavors and create a complete dining experience.
• Protein Power Boost: Top individual servings with grilled chicken strips or crispy pancetta to transform this dish into a more substantial meal that satisfies hearty appetites.
• Leftover Love Remix: Repurpose cold salad as a delicious sandwich filling or wrap ingredient, adding extra zest to next-day lunch options with minimal preparation.

Storage Guidelines For Tortellini Salad

• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and keep chilled for 3-4 days. Ensure the salad stays covered to prevent moisture loss and maintain freshness.
• Avoid freezing this salad due to the fresh vegetables and mozzarella, which will become watery and lose texture when thawed.
• Enjoy cold straight from the refrigerator for best taste. If slightly warmed is preferred, gently microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring between each to prevent uneven heating.
• Before serving leftover salad, add a fresh drizzle of olive oil and quick toss to revive the dressing and brighten the ingredients' flavors.

FAQs

• What ingredients make this tortellini salad authentic Italian?

The combination of cheese tortellini, salami, mozzarella pearls, fresh basil, red wine vinegar, and Italian seasoning create a classic Italian flavor profile that represents traditional Italian pasta salad ingredients.

• Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, this salad can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or potluck gatherings. The flavors actually improve as they sit and blend together.

• Can I make this salad vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the salami and replace it with additional vegetables like artichoke hearts, roasted zucchini, or grilled eggplant to maintain the Italian-inspired taste and texture.

Why Italian Tortellini Salad With Salami Works

• Quickly Craft a Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a stunning dish that will impress everyone at the gathering with minimal effort.
• No-Fuss Flavor Explosion: Packed with Italian-inspired ingredients like salami, mozzarella, and fresh herbs, the salad delivers bold, authentic tastes without complicated cooking techniques.
• Perfect for Meal Prep Lovers: Make ahead and store in the refrigerator, allowing flavors to develop and creating a convenient grab-and-go lunch or dinner option for busy schedules.
• Customize with Ease: Adaptable recipe lets you swap ingredients based on preferences or what's available in your kitchen, making it a flexible go-to meal for any occasion.

Ingredients For Italian Tortellini Salad

• Cheese Tortellini: A delightful pasta filled with creamy cheese that serves as the main foundation of this vibrant salad.

• Salami, Mozzarella Pearls, Parmesan Cheese: These savory ingredients add rich flavor and protein to the salad, creating a satisfying and hearty dish.

• Cherry Tomatoes, Bell Peppers, Red Onion, Black Olives, Fresh Basil: These colorful vegetables and herbs bring freshness, crunch, and authentic Italian flavors to the pasta salad.

• Olive Oil, Red Wine Vinegar, Italian Seasoning, Garlic, Salt, Black Pepper: This classic vinaigrette combines tangy and herbal notes to enhance the overall taste of the salad and tie all the ingredients together.

How To Prepare Tortellini Salad With Salami

Step 1: Whip Up Flavor-Packed Vinaigrette

Grab a small bowl and whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until they dance into a smooth mixture.

Stash the vinaigrette in the refrigerator while prepping the other ingredients.

Step 2: Cook Tortellini to Perfection

Boil the cheese tortellini following package instructions.

Once cooked, drain and give them a cool rinse under running water to halt the cooking process.

Let the tortellini chill completely.

Step 3: Assemble Colorful Pasta Components

• Cubed salami
• Halved cherry tomatoes
• Chopped bell peppers
• Sliced black olives
• Mozzarella pearls
• Torn fresh basil leaves
• Thinly sliced red onion

Step 4: Dress and Marinate

Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the salad and toss until every morsel gets a delicious coating.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing flavors to mingle and intensify.

Step 5: Final Cheese Flourish

Before serving, give the salad another gentle toss.

Sprinkle generously with parmesan cheese – either on individual servings or mixed throughout the entire salad.

Step 6: Serve and Savor

Dive into this vibrant Italian tortellini pasta salad as a stunning main course or crowd-pleasing side dish.

Buon appetito!

Tips For Italian Tortellini Salad

• Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor depth and allow ingredients to marinate perfectly.
• Cool tortellini under cold water immediately after cooking to prevent overcooking and maintain ideal pasta texture.
• Use high-quality mozzarella pearls, ripe cherry tomatoes, and crisp bell peppers for maximum taste and visual appeal.
• Taste and modify the dressing's seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or Italian herbs to suit personal preferences.
• Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan just before serving to preserve its delicate flavor and prevent moisture absorption.

Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad with Salami and Mozzarella Recipe

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4.7 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 19 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Savory Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad brings Mediterranean flavors to your summer gathering. Loaded with salami, mozzarella, and zesty herbs, this dish promises a delightful escape you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 (20 ounces / 567 grams) bag refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 9 ounces (255 grams) hard salami (sliced)
• 8 ounces (227 grams) mozzarella pearls

Vegetables and Herbs:

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1 cup bell pepper (chopped (any color: red, green, yellow, or orange))
• 1 (6 ounces / 170 grams) can black olives, drained
• 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves (thinly sliced)
• 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese (shredded or grated (optional))

Dressing and Seasonings:

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
• 1½ tablespoons Italian seasoning
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

1. Prepare the vinaigrette by vigorously whisking olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until thoroughly emulsified. Refrigerate the dressing while assembling other components.
2. Boil cheese tortellini in salted water for 3-4 minutes at medium-high heat, following package instructions. Immediately drain and rinse with cold water to halt cooking process, then allow to cool completely.
3. Select a spacious mixing bowl and combine cooled tortellini with cubed salami, halved cherry tomatoes, diced bell peppers, sliced black olives, mozzarella pearls, fresh basil ribbons, and thinly sliced red onion.
4. Drizzle prepared vinaigrette over the pasta mixture, gently tossing to ensure uniform coating. Seal the bowl and refrigerate for 30-45 minutes, allowing flavors to harmonize and intensify.
5. Prior to serving, redistribute the salad ingredients by giving another gentle toss. Optionally sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese across the top or fold into the entire salad for enhanced flavor profile.
6. Serve chilled as a refreshing main course or accompaniment, showcasing vibrant Mediterranean-inspired ingredients.

Notes

• Rinse tortellini with cold water immediately after cooking to prevent overcooking and maintain a perfect al dente texture.
• Chop vegetables uniformly to ensure even distribution and balanced flavor in every bite.
• Marinate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow ingredients to absorb the zesty vinaigrette, intensifying the overall taste profile.
• Customize the salad by substituting salami with grilled chicken or tofu for lighter protein options, making it adaptable for different dietary preferences.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 484 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 730 mg
• Fat: 35 g
• Saturated Fat: 11 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 22 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg