This Italian Tortellini Salad is colorful and fresh, featuring tasty tortellini, crunchy veggies, and a zesty dressing. It’s perfect for picnics or a quick lunch!
Whenever I make this salad, my friends always ask for seconds. It’s so simple that I can whip it up while catching up on my favorite show. What’s better than that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Creamy Cheese Tortellini: I love using cheese-filled tortellini as it adds a rich flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with spinach or vegetable tortellini.
Fresh Vegetables: Cherry tomatoes and cucumbers bring freshness. You can try grape tomatoes or even diced avocados instead of cucumbers if you prefer a creamier taste.
Bell Peppers: Any color works! Each adds a unique flavor. If you want a substitution, try roasted red peppers from a jar for a different twist.
Salami: If you’re vegetarian, swap with marinated artichokes or chickpeas for added protein and flavor. Deli meats or different cheeses can also be great alternatives.
Olive Oil and Vinegar: Extra virgin olive oil is best for dressing. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, a splash of lemon juice can brighten the flavor instead of vinegar.
How Can I Make Sure the Tortellini Is Cooked Just Right?
Cooking tortellini is straightforward, but it’s essential to watch the timing closely. Overcooking can lead to mushy pasta, while undercooking can make it tough. Here are some tips:
- Follow the package instructions for cooking times and use a timer for precision.
- Test a piece a minute or two before the timer goes off. It should be al dente, soft but with a slight bite.
- Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop further cooking, which keeps it firm and fresh.
How to Make Italian Tortellini Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 12 oz cheese tortellini
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup bell peppers (any color), diced
- 1 cup mozzarella balls, halved
- 1 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup Italian salami, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation and cooking, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill the salad in the fridge. In total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes before you can dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by cooking the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. This usually takes just a few minutes. Once done, drain them and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let them cool for a bit while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced bell peppers, halved mozzarella balls, sliced black olives, diced salami, and finely chopped red onion. Give it a good mix so everything is combined!
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried Italian herbs, and add salt and pepper to taste. Whisk until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
4. Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture in your larger bowl. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the delicious dressing.
5. Chill and Garnish:
Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely. When you’re ready to serve, take it out, garnish with fresh basil, toss it again gently, and enjoy your refreshing Italian Tortellini Salad!
Can I Use Another Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! If you don’t have cheese tortellini on hand, you can substitute it with any small pasta shape like bowties, penne, or rotini. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose!
How Long Can I Store This Salad?
You can store this tortellini salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that the vegetables may become a bit softer over time, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make this salad vegan, simply omit the cheese tortellini and replace it with a vegan pasta. You can also leave out the salami or substitute it with marinated tofu or additional veggies. Just make sure that the dressing adheres to your dietary preferences!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to customize your Italian tortellini salad with other vegetables like spinach, arugula, carrots, or even artichoke hearts! Adding or substituting veggies is a great way to make the salad your own.
