Salami-Mozzarella Tortellini Pasta Salad is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick family meal. Packed with tender tortellini, savory salami, creamy mozzarella, and fresh vegetables, this pasta salad is a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed year-round.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep with store-bought tortellini and simple ingredients.
- Flavorful and Satisfying: A perfect balance of tangy, salty, and creamy flavors.
- Versatile: Works as a main dish, side, or party favorite.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better after marinating in the dressing.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cheese-filled tortellini
- Salami slices, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Fresh mozzarella balls (or cubed mozzarella)
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Black or Kalamata olives, sliced
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Cook the Tortellini:
- Boil the tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Chop the salami, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the olives, and thinly slice the red onion.
- Combine in a Bowl:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, salami, mozzarella, tomatoes, olives, red onion, and basil.
- Dress the Salad:
- Drizzle the Italian dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Adjust the amount of dressing based on preference.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the salami and add roasted red peppers or marinated artichokes.
- Add Crunch: Include diced cucumbers or bell peppers for a fresh crunch.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing or include spicy salami.
- Cheese Swap: Try feta, provolone, or Parmesan in place of mozzarella.
- Different Dressing: Use a balsamic vinaigrette or pesto dressing for a flavor change.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary.
FAQs
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, it’s even better when prepared a few hours in advance to allow the flavors to blend.
What type of tortellini works best?
Cheese-filled tortellini is ideal, but you can use spinach or meat-filled tortellini for variation.
Can I use a homemade Italian dressing?
Absolutely! A homemade dressing with olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and Italian herbs works perfectly.
How do I prevent the salad from becoming soggy?
Toss the ingredients gently and use just enough dressing to coat them. Add additional dressing just before serving if needed.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, but tortellini adds a unique texture and flavor. If substituting, opt for short pasta like rotini or penne.
What other meats can I use?
Pepperoni, prosciutto, or diced ham are great alternatives to salami.
Is this dish suitable for outdoor events?
Yes, just keep it chilled until serving to maintain freshness.
Can I add greens to this pasta salad?
Yes, arugula or spinach can be mixed in just before serving for added freshness.
How do I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free tortellini and ensure the dressing is gluten-free.
Can I add nuts or seeds for texture?
Pine nuts or sunflower seeds make a great crunchy addition.
Conclusion
Salami-Mozzarella Tortellini Pasta Salad is a versatile and delicious dish that’s sure to impress at any gathering. With its bold flavors, creamy cheese, and hearty pasta, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for an easy meal prep option, this salad has you covered. Enjoy!
Print
Salami-Mozzarella Tortellini Pasta Salad
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Salad, Main Dish
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Salami-Mozzarella Tortellini Pasta Salad is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a quick meal. Packed with cheese-filled tortellini, savory salami, and creamy mozzarella, it’s tossed in a tangy Italian dressing for the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) cheese-filled tortellini, cooked and cooled
- 1 cup (150 g) salami, sliced into strips or small cubes
- 1 cup (150 g) mozzarella pearls (or diced fresh mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup (75 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup (75 g) black or green olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup (30 g) red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup (30 g) fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1/4 cup (30 g) grated Parmesan cheese
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Cook the Tortellini:
- Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, salami, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, olives, red onion, and basil.
4. Toss with Dressing:
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- For extra crunch, add diced bell peppers or cucumbers.
- Swap salami with pepperoni or prosciutto for a twist.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.