This Italian tortellini salad is fresh, colorful, and super easy to whip up! With perfectly cooked tortellini, crunchy veggies, and a zesty dressing, it’s a real crowd-pleaser.
I love to make this salad for picnics or barbecues. It’s quick to prepare, and everyone always comes back for seconds. Plus, who can resist that cheesy tortellini? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Use refrigerated cheese tortellini for the best flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, try whole wheat or vegetable-based tortellini. You can also swap it for any short pasta like rotini or bowties.
Cherry Tomatoes: They add sweetness and color to the salad. If unavailable, chopped regular tomatoes work well. I sometimes go for sun-dried tomatoes for a concentrated flavor, too.
Cucumber: Adds crunch. Any variety works, but Persian or seedless cucumbers are great for less bitterness. If you want a kick of spice, consider using bell peppers instead.
Salami: A great addition for some hearty flavor! You can substitute it with pepperoni, turkey, or leave it out for a vegetarian option. Adding chickpeas can also add protein!
Italian Dressing: While store-bought is convenient, making your own with olive oil, vinegar, herbs, and spices adds a personal touch and freshness. Use lemon juice for zest!
How Do I Cook Tortellini Just Right?
Cooking tortellini perfectly is super easy, but there are a few tips to keep in mind. You want them cooked al dente, which means firm to the bite.
- Start with a large pot of salted water; this enhances the flavor.
- Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding tortellini to prevent sticking.
- Follow the package cooking time, usually around 3-5 minutes.
- Test one tortellini a minute or two before the time is up to check for doneness.
- Once done, drain and rinse immediately under cold water. This stops the cooking process and keeps them from getting mushy.
These tips ensure your tortellini stays firm and bouncy in your salad! Enjoy creating this colorful dish that everyone raves about!
Easy Italian Tortellini Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup salami, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella balls (or cubed mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/3 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious tortellini salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and you’ll want to chill it for at least 30 minutes before serving. So, set aside about 40 minutes total for some tasty results!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Begin by cooking the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions until they are al dente—this usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Make sure to salt your boiling water to enhance the flavor. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and give them a rinse under cold water to cool them down and stop the cooking process.
2. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled tortellini. Then, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced black olives, chopped salami, mozzarella balls, diced red bell pepper, and red onion if you’re using it. Fresh veggies add loads of flavor and color!
3. Dress the Salad:
Pour the Italian dressing over the salad ingredients. Don’t forget to gently toss everything together so that the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly. This step helps all those tasty flavors blend beautifully.
4. Season and Garnish:
Sprinkle in some salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste. Then, finish it off by garnishing with chopped fresh parsley for an added touch of freshness and color.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting time helps the flavors meld together beautifully. Once ready to serve, give it a gentle stir to combine everything one last time. Enjoy your fresh and delicious Italian tortellini salad!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Tortellini?
Absolutely! You can use any type of refrigerated tortellini, such as spinach or meat-filled varieties. If you prefer a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free tortellini available in stores.
How Do I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
To make this salad vegetarian, simply omit the salami. You can add more veggies like bell pepper or artichokes, or replace the salami with chickpeas for some extra protein!
Can I Prepare This Salad the Night Before?
Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time! Just keep it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors improve as it sits, but it’s best to add dressing closer to serving time to prevent the tortellini from becoming too soft.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad seems dry after storage, just add a splash of Italian dressing before serving for added moisture and flavor!
