Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bright and colorful with a mix of fresh vegetables and hearty tortellini.
- Packed with flavor from the Italian dressing and savory salami.
- Quick to make and perfect for meal prep or parties.
- Versatile and can be enjoyed as a side or main dish.
Ingredients
- 18 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup Italian dressing (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¾ cup diced salami
- ⅓ cup diced red onion
- ½ red bell pepper, diced
- ½ green bell pepper, diced
- 2 tbsp shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Cook the tortellini in a large pot of salted water according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, tomatoes, salami, red onion, bell peppers, Parmesan, and parsley.
- Add the Italian dressing and toss well to combine.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Chill time: 2 hours
Variations
- Add marinated artichoke hearts, olives, or sundried tomatoes for more Mediterranean flavor.
- Use spinach or tricolor tortellini for added flavor and color.
Storage/Reheating
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- This salad is best served cold and doesn’t need reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute tortellini with another type of pasta like penne or rotini.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day ahead. Just keep it refrigerated and toss it again before serving.
Is this salad gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free tortellini and ensure the dressing is gluten-free.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas would be great additions.
Can I use homemade dressing?
Yes, homemade Italian dressing works wonderfully for this salad.
How long will this salad last in the fridge?
It will last up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container.
Can I use other vegetables?
Feel free to add cucumbers, olives, or roasted red peppers to the salad.
Can I skip the salami?
Yes, you can skip the salami or replace it with another protein like turkey or chicken.
Can I freeze this salad?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the pasta may become soggy when frozen.
Can I make this salad vegan?
To make it vegan, use a plant-based tortellini and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Conclusion
This Italian Tortellini Salad is an easy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for summer picnics, BBQs, or meal prepping. The combination of tender tortellini, savory salami, and colorful veggies, all tossed in a tangy Italian dressing, makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Print
Italian Tortellini Salad
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Italian Tortellini Salad is a fresh, vibrant dish featuring cheese tortellini, salami, fresh veggies, and a zesty Italian dressing. Perfect as a side or main dish, it’s quick to prepare, full of flavor, and ideal for meal prep or gatherings like BBQs and picnics.
Ingredients
18 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
1 cup Italian dressing (homemade or store-bought)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
¾ cup diced salami
⅓ cup diced red onion
½ red bell pepper, diced
½ green bell pepper, diced
2 tbsp shredded Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
-
Cook the tortellini in a large pot of salted water according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
-
In a large bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, tomatoes, salami, red onion, bell peppers, Parmesan, and parsley.
-
Add the Italian dressing and toss well to combine.
-
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
-
Add marinated artichoke hearts, olives, or sundried tomatoes for more Mediterranean flavor.
-
Use spinach or tricolor tortellini for added flavor and color.
-
The salad can be made a day ahead, and the flavors will meld even more.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Tossing
- Cuisine: Italian
