Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tortellini according to package directions. After draining, let it cool slightly.
Prep the mix-ins: While the tortellini is cooling, slice the salami into bits, halve the tomatoes, and prep the olives and onion.
Combine everything: In a big mixing bowl, add the cooked tortellini, salami, mozzarella, tomatoes, olives, and red onion.
Dress it up: Pour your Italian dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Season and finish: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top, add salt and black pepper to taste, and give it another toss.
Chill and serve: Allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes. This lets the flavors mingle beautifully. Before serving, garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley to add color and freshness.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This Tortellini Pasta Salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways! Serve it at room temperature for a casual lunch, or chill it for a refreshing summer side dish. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, garlic bread, or a simple green salad. You can also load it up with additional vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for an extra nutritional boost.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To store your Tortellini Pasta Salad, place it in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best eaten within 3 days, but the flavors will continue to develop over time. If you’re planning a larger batch, feel free to prepare the components separately and combine them just before serving for optimum freshness!
Pro Chef Tips
- Make it ahead: For busy nights, you can prep the salad a day in advance. Just hold off on adding the dressing until you’re ready to serve to keep the tortellini from getting soggy.
- Use fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh mozzarella and in-season tomatoes—the flavor difference is remarkable!
- Spice it up: If you like a kick, consider adding sliced pepperoncini or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
Creative Twists
Feel free to personalize this salad to suit your taste! You can substitute the salami with pepperoni or prosciutto, or use a different type of cheese altogether. For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add extra veggies like roasted bell peppers or zucchini. You can also experiment with different dressings—balsamic vinaigrette can give a different yet delicious spin!
Common Questions
How long does the salad take to prepare?
From start to finish, you can have this Tortellini Pasta Salad ready in about 30 minutes, especially if you multitask while the tortellini cooks.
Can I use frozen tortellini instead?
Absolutely! Just follow the cooking instructions on the package, and thaw them slightly if you’re using store-bought.
Is it safe to store leftovers?
Yes, just ensure you store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume it within 3 days for the best flavor and safety.
