If you’re looking for a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any gathering or a simple weeknight meal, this Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad Recipe is an absolute winner. Combining pillowy cheese tortellini with fresh, colorful vegetables and a zesty Italian dressing, every bite bursts with layers of taste and texture that will have you reaching for seconds. It’s a dish that feels both indulgent and refreshing, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a comforting solo treat. Trust me, once you try this salad, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients are the cornerstone of this Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad Recipe. Each component adds its own unique flair — from the creamy cheese tortellini to the juicy cherry tomatoes — creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
- 20 ounces fresh or frozen cheese tortellini: Choose cheese-filled tortellini for a rich, comforting pasta base.
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved: These add sweetness and a pop of vibrant color.
- 1 cup sliced cucumbers: Cool and crisp, cucumbers provide refreshing crunch.
- 1 cup black olives, sliced: Their briny flavor brings a wonderful depth to the salad.
- 1 cup mozzarella balls or cubed mozzarella: Creamy and mild, mozzarella pairs perfectly with Italian flavors.
- 1/2 cup sliced red onion: Adds a subtle bite and lovely purple hue.
- 1 cup Italian salami, diced: Salty and savory, this gives the salad a satisfying protein boost.
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: A sharp, nutty finish that elevates the dish.
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped: Bright and aromatic, basil makes the salad truly pop.
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing (homemade or store-bought): The zesty dressing ties all the ingredients together perfectly.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
How to Make Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook and Cool the Tortellini
Begin by cooking the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse immediately under cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools the pasta so it’s perfect for a salad. Let it fully cool before mixing to keep the texture firm and fresh.
Step 2: Combine Fresh Vegetables and Meats
In a large salad bowl, toss together the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, black olives, mozzarella, and red onion. Add the diced Italian salami for a savory punch that complements the cool veggies beautifully.
Step 3: Dress the Salad
Pour the Italian dressing over the combined ingredients. Gently toss everything to ensure every piece of tortellini and every vegetable is lightly coated with that zesty, herby goodness.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches
Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil over the salad. Toss again lightly to distribute these final layers of flavor without bruising the basil.
Step 5: Season and Chill
Season with freshly ground salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate the salad for at least one hour before serving so all the flavors have time to meld and deepen — this rest time makes all the difference.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Give the salad one last gentle toss before serving. If the pasta has soaked up too much dressing during refrigeration, feel free to add a touch more to bring everything back to life. Serve chilled and prepare to be amazed by the layers of Italian flavor in every bite.
How to Serve Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like additional fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese add a lovely burst of aroma and elevate the presentation. For a little extra zing, a drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving can take it to the next level.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or seafood, crusty Italian bread, or a light green salad. It’s also perfect as a hearty side for summertime barbecues or potluck dinners, standing out with its colorful ingredients and robust flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests? Serve the Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad Recipe in individual mason jars or hollowed-out bell peppers for a charming, rustic touch. You can also layer the ingredients in a large clear glass bowl to showcase the vibrant colors, turning your meal into a visual feast before you even take a bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to three days, with the flavors continuing to develop, making it an excellent next-day meal or snack.
Freezing
Freezing this salad is not recommended because the fresh vegetables and cheese can lose their texture and become watery upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed freshly made or chilled in the fridge for a few days.
Reheating
This dish is served cold, so reheating is unnecessary. If you prefer, you can let it come to room temperature before serving, but keep it chilled to maintain the fresh flavors and textures that make this salad so delightful.
FAQs
Can I use dried tortellini instead of fresh or frozen?
Absolutely! Just be sure to cook dried tortellini until al dente and cool it completely before mixing with the other ingredients to preserve the salad’s lovely texture.
Is there a vegan version of the Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad Recipe?
Yes! Swap out the cheese tortellini for a vegan variety and replace mozzarella and Parmesan with plant-based alternatives or omit cheeses altogether. Use a vegan Italian dressing, and you’ll still have a delicious, vibrant salad.
How long should I marinate the salad before serving?
At least one hour in the refrigerator allows the flavors to meld, but you can refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just give it a gentle toss and a taste check before serving.
Can I add other vegetables or ingredients?
Definitely! Roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes work wonderfully. Just be mindful of the balance to keep the salad harmonious and not too crowded.
What type of Italian dressing is best for this salad?
A well-seasoned vinaigrette with herbs like oregano, basil, and garlic is ideal. You can use store-bought Italian dressing or make your own at home for a fresh, personalized touch.
Final Thoughts
This Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad Recipe is more than just a salad; it’s a celebration of fresh, bold ingredients that come together effortlessly for a dish that’s as comforting as it is exciting. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, packing a lunch, or craving a healthy yet indulgent meal at home, this recipe invites you to enjoy the vibrant flavors of Italy with every bite. Give it a try — I promise it will become a cherished part of your recipe collection!
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Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a refreshing lunch. Featuring tender cheese tortellini combined with fresh cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, black olives, mozzarella, and savory Italian salami, all tossed in zesty Italian dressing and finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. This salad is served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 20 ounces fresh or frozen cheese tortellini
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup sliced cucumbers
- 1 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup mozzarella balls or cubed mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced red onion
- 1 cup Italian salami, diced
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Dressing
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing (homemade or store-bought)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the tortellini: Prepare the tortellini according to the package instructions. After cooking, drain well and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow the tortellini to cool completely before using it in the salad.
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large salad bowl, mix together the cooled tortellini, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, black olives, mozzarella, sliced red onion, and diced Italian salami until evenly distributed.
- Add the dressing: Pour the Italian dressing over the combined salad ingredients in the bowl, ensuring the dressing is evenly distributed over the salad.
- Toss the salad: Gently toss all ingredients together so that each component is well coated with the Italian dressing.
- Add cheese and basil: Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil over the salad, then toss lightly once again to incorporate these final flavor elements without bruising the herbs.
- Season to taste: Add salt and pepper according to your preference, tasting to adjust seasoning as needed.
- Chill the salad: Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the overall taste.
- Final toss and serve: Before serving, give the salad a final gentle toss. If the pasta has absorbed too much dressing during chilling, add a bit more Italian dressing to refresh the flavors.
- Enjoy: Serve the pasta salad chilled for a delicious and refreshing meal or side dish.
Notes
- Use fresh basil for the best flavor; dried basil will not provide the same freshness.
- Salami can be substituted with other Italian cured meats like pepperoni or prosciutto if preferred.
- To make this salad vegetarian, omit the salami and consider adding extra vegetables or chickpeas for protein.
- You can prepare this salad a few hours ahead to let flavors develop, but avoid dressing too far in advance to prevent sogginess.
- For a lighter option, use reduced-fat mozzarella and a low-fat Italian dressing.
- If fresh cherry tomatoes are not available, grape tomatoes are a good substitute.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
