Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad: A Fresh Twist on a Classic Dish
A vibrant and chilled Italian salad that brings together al dente cheese tortellini, crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, and a zesty dressing. Perfect for potlucks or a refreshing weeknight meal, this recipe balances creamy, tangy, and herby flavors rooted in Emilia-Romagna traditions.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 15
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: quick
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Dairy-Free Option Available
Ingredients
20 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, peeled and chopped
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup pitted kalamata olives, chopped
1 cup fresh mozzarella balls
1/2 cup chopped salami or pepperoni
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups baby spinach or arugula
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
For the dressing:
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp honey
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook the Tortellini: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add tortellini and cook for 3-4 minutes (check package for al dente texture). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Transfer to a large bowl.
Make the Dressing: In a jar, combine olive oil, vinegar, mustard, honey, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Shake until emulsified.
Cool the Tortellini: Pour half the dressing over warm tortellini. Toss gently, then let cool for 10 minutes to absorb flavor.
Add Vegetables and Greens: Mix in cherry tomatoes, cucumber, onion, olives, mozzarella, salami, Parmesan, spinach, and basil.
Finish the Salad: Add the remaining dressing, toss gently. Refrigerate for 2+ hours. Adjust seasoning before serving.
Notes
For a vegetarian option, skip the salami or substitute with roasted red peppers or grilled eggplant.
Chill the salad for at least 2 hours before serving for the best flavor.
This salad can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 250g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 45mg