Italian Tortellini Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Italian Tortellini Salad is a vibrant, hearty pasta salad loaded with cheese-filled tortellini, crisp vegetables, salami, and zesty Italian dressing. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or easy weeknight dinners, it’s a flavor-packed dish that’s as colorful as it is satisfying. Quick to make and endlessly customizable, it brings bold Italian flavors to your table in every bite.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
cherry tomatoes (halved)
cucumber (sliced or chopped)
red onion (thinly sliced)
black olives (sliced)
salami or pepperoni (diced)
mozzarella pearls or cubed cheese
Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
Parmesan cheese (grated)
fresh basil or parsley (chopped)
salt and black pepper (to taste)

directions

Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

In a large bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, salami, and mozzarella.

Pour in the Italian dressing and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Before serving, sprinkle with grated Parmesan and fresh herbs.

Serve cold or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6–8 as a side dish.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

Use tricolor tortellini for extra color.
Swap salami for grilled chicken or omit meat for a vegetarian version.
Add roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
Try a balsamic vinaigrette or pesto as a dressing alternative.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Stir before serving to redistribute dressing.
Do not freeze, as pasta and vegetables may become mushy.

FAQs

Can I make Italian Tortellini Salad ahead of time?
Yes, it’s even better after chilling for a few hours.

Do I have to use cheese tortellini?
No, meat-filled or spinach tortellini also work well.

Is this salad served cold?
Yes, it’s traditionally served cold or at room temperature.

Can I use homemade dressing?
Absolutely—homemade Italian dressing adds a fresh, zesty touch.

What vegetables work best?
Crunchy, fresh veggies like cucumbers, bell peppers, and onions hold up best.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the meat and use cheese tortellini.

How do I prevent soggy pasta?
Rinse cooked tortellini with cold water and don’t overcook it.

Is it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free tortellini and check dressing ingredients.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe scales easily for larger gatherings.

Is this good for meal prep?
Yes, just store undressed if preparing far in advance, and toss before serving.

Conclusion

Italian Tortellini Salad is a colorful, crave-worthy combination of cheesy pasta, savory meats, and fresh vegetables tossed in tangy dressing. Whether you’re serving it at a summer cookout or packing it for lunch, this dish delivers delicious flavor and satisfying texture in every bite.

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