Italian Tortellini Salad

Italian Tortellini Salad Recipe

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This Italian Tortellini Salad is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a refreshing meal on warm days. With tender tortellini pasta, fresh vegetables, and a tangy homemade Italian dressing, this salad brings together the best of Italian flavors in a single bowl. Let’s get started with this delicious recipe!

Introduction

Italian Tortellini Salad is an ideal dish for any occasion. Inspired by classic Italian antipasto flavors, this salad combines soft cheese-filled tortellini with crisp vegetables, salty salami, and a flavorful Italian dressing. Whether you’re making it for a family meal, a picnic, or a special event, it’s sure to please everyone with its bright and savory flavors.

Ingredients

Italian Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, crushed
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1/2 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
  • 1/2 tablespoon chopped fresh Italian parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

Tortellini Pasta Salad

  • 1 (16-ounce) bag cheese tortellini
  • 1 1/2 cups halved grape or cherry tomatoes
  • 1 small red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/3 cup chopped red onion
  • 8 ounces mozzarella balls
  • 1/2 cup sliced pepperoncini
  • 8 ounces salami, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh Italian parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 cup Italian dressing
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Fresh ground black pepper, to taste

These fresh, flavorful ingredients bring out the best of Italian flavors. Feel free to customize with additional vegetables or herbs if desired!

How to Make Italian Tortellini Salad

Follow these steps to create a delicious Italian Tortellini Salad:

  1. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, crushed garlic, granulated sugar, chopped basil, parsley, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Gradually whisk in the olive oil until the dressing is well combined. Alternatively, add all dressing ingredients to a mason jar and shake to mix.
  2. Cook the Tortellini: Cook the cheese tortellini according to package directions. Once done, drain the tortellini in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
  3. Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked tortellini, halved tomatoes, diced bell peppers, chopped red onion, mozzarella balls, sliced pepperoncini, chopped salami, basil, parsley, and dried oregano.
  4. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the Italian dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to coat everything evenly.
  5. Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Refrigerate until ready to serve, allowing the flavors to blend and deepen.

Helpful Tips

  • Make Ahead: This salad can be made a few hours in advance, making it perfect for parties or busy days. Just refrigerate and toss again before serving.
  • Serving Temperature: For the best taste, serve the salad slightly chilled or at room temperature.
  • Dressing Tip: If the salad has been refrigerated for a while, consider adding an extra splash of dressing to refresh it before serving.

Cooking Tips

Here are some extra tips for making the perfect Italian Tortellini Salad:

  • Using Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil and parsley add a burst of flavor to this dish. If you don’t have fresh, you can use dried herbs, but fresh herbs elevate the taste.
  • Cheese Variety: If you prefer, swap mozzarella balls for cubed provolone or even feta for a slightly tangier flavor.
  • Add Some Crunch: Consider adding sliced cucumbers or roasted bell peppers for a bit more texture.

Serving Suggestions

This Italian Tortellini Salad is fantastic as a main dish for lunch or as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, steak, or seafood. For a complete Italian-themed meal, serve it with a side of crusty bread and a chilled glass of white wine. This salad is also a hit at potlucks, BBQs, and family gatherings.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a look at the nutritional benefits of this Italian Tortellini Salad:

  • Provides a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates.
  • Packed with fresh vegetables and herbs that offer vitamins and antioxidants.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 460
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Protein: 14g
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 18g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg
  • Sodium: 750mg
  • Potassium: 400mg
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Vitamin A: 10%
  • Vitamin C: 25%
  • Calcium: 15%
  • Iron: 10%

This salad is as nutritious as it is delicious, offering a great mix of flavors and a satisfying texture in every bite.

Storage and Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If possible, store the salad and dressing separately to keep it fresher.

Reheat: No need to reheat—this salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. However, if it has been refrigerated, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad can be made a few hours ahead. Just keep it refrigerated, and toss it again before serving for the freshest taste.

Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely. You can add cucumbers, artichoke hearts, or even roasted bell peppers for added flavor and texture.

Is there a vegetarian option?
To make this vegetarian, simply omit the salami. The tortellini, cheese, and vegetables are flavorful enough to stand on their own.

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Conclusion

And that’s it—the ultimate Italian Tortellini Salad! This vibrant and flavorful salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving it as a main or a side dish. We hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe. Buon appetito!

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