Easy Italian Tortellini Salad Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is the star here! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, some brands offer gluten-free tortellini made from rice or chickpeas. You could also use other pasta shapes if you can’t find tortellini.

Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes add sweetness and color. If they’re out of season, feel free to use grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes. I’ve used sun-dried tomatoes for a different twist, adding a lovely richness.

Cucumber: Crunchy cucumbers are refreshing. If you want to try something different, consider bell peppers or chopped zucchini for a similar texture. I love using Persian cucumbers for their mild flavor.

Salami or Pepperoni: They add a nice salty bite. You can substitute with diced turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, consider using chickpeas or marinated artichokes instead.

Italian Dressing: A homemade dressing with olive oil, vinegar, and Italian herbs can take this salad to the next level. If you prefer a lower calorie option, a light vinaigrette works well too.

How Do I Ensure My Tortellini is Perfectly Cooked?

The key to perfect tortellini is cooking them just right. If they’re overcooked, they’ll become mushy. Here’s how to do it:

• Boil water in a pot and add salt—it should taste like the sea!
• Cook the tortellini according to the package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes.
• Check one a minute before the cooking time ends: it should be tender but still a bit firm in the center.
• Once done, drain the tortellini and rinse them under cold water. This stops the cooking process and helps them cool quickly for your salad.

Taking these steps will ensure your tortellini has the perfect bite and doesn’t clump together in your salad.

Easy Italian Tortellini Salad

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 (9-ounce) package cheese tortellini
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 cup cooked and chopped salami or pepperoni
• 1 cup black olives, sliced
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

How Much Time Will You Need?

This salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare, with an additional 30 minutes for chilling in the refrigerator. So in total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes until you can enjoy this delicious dish!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Tortellini:

Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Once they’re ready, drain them and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Vegetables and Meats:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tortellini with the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, chopped salami, sliced black olives, halved mozzarella balls, diced red bell pepper, and optional red onion. This colorful mix will make your salad pop!

3. Dress the Salad:

Pour the Italian dressing over the ingredients in the bowl. Gently toss everything together so the dressing coats the pasta and veggies evenly.

4. Season It Up:

Sprinkle some salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference. A little seasoning goes a long way!

5. Garnish:

Finally, garnish the salad with chopped fresh parsley for a lovely green touch and additional flavor.

6. Chill and Serve:

Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows all the flavors to meld beautifully together. Once chilled, serve the salad cold or at room temperature. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as an easy lunch!

FAQ for Easy Italian Tortellini Salad

Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?

Absolutely! While tortellini is traditional, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini, penne, or even a gluten-free pasta if needed. Just make sure to cook it according to package instructions!

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, as some ingredients may settle or separate.

Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?

Yes! In fact, making it a few hours or even the day before serving allows the flavors to develop even more. Just make sure to keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Are There Any Good Substitutions for the Dressing?

For sure! If you’d like a lighter alternative, a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil, vinegar, and Italian herbs works wonderfully. You can also try a homemade dressing with lemon juice and herbs for a fresh twist!