This Easy Italian Tortellini Salad is a colorful mix of yummy tortellini, fresh veggies, and zesty dressing. It’s perfect for any meal or as a tasty side dish!
I love how quick and simple it is to whip up! Just cook the tortellini, toss everything together, and you have a delightful salad that’s just begging to be eaten. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cheese Tortellini: This is the star of the dish! You can find refrigerated tortellini in stores; just look for cheese or spinach varieties. If you’re gluten-free, try chickpea or lentil-based pasta instead!
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a burst of sweetness. If you can’t find them, you can use diced regular tomatoes or even sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor.
Cucumber: A great crunch! If you’re not a fan, consider using bell peppers or shredded carrots instead.
Red Bell Pepper: They bring sweetness and color! You can swap with yellow or orange peppers for a similar taste, or use diced celery for some crunch.
Olives: Black olives add a salty bite. If you prefer, try green olives or leave them out altogether if you’re not a fan!
Italian Salami or Pepperoni: Both add protein and flavor! If you’re vegetarian, substitute with diced marinated artichokes or more veggies.
Fresh Mozzarella: The creamy texture is delicious! If you can’t find mozzarella balls, diced mozzarella or even feta can work well.
How Do I Cook the Tortellini Perfectly?
Cooking tortellini is straightforward but requires some attention to achieve the right texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Salt enhances the pasta’s flavor.
- Add the tortellini gently to the boiling water and stir to prevent sticking.
- Cook according to package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes, until they float to the top.
- Once cooked, drain them immediately to avoid overcooking, then rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
This cooling step is key; it keeps the tortellini from becoming mushy in your salad!
Easy Italian Tortellini Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
- ½ cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup cooked Italian salami or pepperoni, diced
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- â…“ cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Italian Tortellini Salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time and should be refrigerated for at least 30 minutes before serving, making the total time about 45 minutes. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes, until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and rinse them under cold water to cool them down. Set aside to let them drain completely.
2. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled tortellini, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, sliced black olives, diced salami, halved mozzarella balls, and the optional red onion. Gently toss all the ingredients together so they are mixed evenly.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. This will be your flavorful dressing for the salad!
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the tortellini mixture in the large bowl. Toss gently to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Add Fresh Herbs:
Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top of the salad for added flavor and color. Give the salad one final gentle toss to mix everything together.
6. Chill It Down:
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Easy Italian Tortellini Salad is now ready to be served! Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature as a delightful side dish or a light main meal.
Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick family dinner! Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of tortellini, you can easily substitute it with other pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or bow ties. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly for whichever pasta you choose!
What Can I Substitute for the Salami or Pepperoni?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you could use diced marinated artichokes, chopped vegetables, or even add some chickpeas for extra protein. For a different meaty flavor, try diced cooked chicken or turkey.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Italian tortellini salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the ingredients may settle.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it a day in advance, just keep it refrigerated, and let the flavors meld together. It’s always nice to serve it chilled!
