Tortellini Salad is one of those delightful dishes that brings a burst of flavor and a medley of textures to the table. It’s versatile enough for casual weeknight dinners, yet impressive enough for gatherings or potlucks. I remember the first time I made it; the fresh ingredients and savory dressing blended beautifully, captivating everyone’s taste buds. This salad offers a perfect mix of hearty tortellini, tangy salami, and refreshing veggies, making it not just a meal, but an experience.
Why make this recipe
Reasons to try it
What sets Tortellini Salad apart is its ease and adaptability. It’s not just quick to whip up; it’s also budget-friendly, using ingredients you likely already have on hand. This salad is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something satisfying but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a fantastic dish for families, as kids love the cheesy tortellini paired with colorful veggies and flavorful dressing.
"This is my go-to potluck dish! It’s so easy to make and always a hit. Everyone loves the combination of flavors!" — Sarah, satisfied home cook
How to make Tortellini Salad
Step-by-step overview
Making Tortellini Salad is straightforward: cook the pasta, combine fresh ingredients, and blend together with a zesty dressing. You’ll find that it’s as easy as 1-2-3, and the steps are quick enough to fit into your busy schedule. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Cook and cool the tortellini.
- Mix all the fresh ingredients in a bowl.
- Toss with dressing and serve.
It’s that simple!
Ingredients
Key ingredients
To create this delicious Tortellini Salad, here’s what you’ll need on hand:
- 24 oz fresh or frozen cheese tortellini
- 1 cup chopped hard salami
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 English cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1/2 cup small mozzarella balls (ciliegine) or cubed mozzarella
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup zesty Italian salad dressing
- 2 tbsp prepared pesto sauce
Feel free to substitute salami with turkey or omit it for a vegetarian twist. The mozzarella can be swapped with feta for a different flavor profile!
