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Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad

A cold, zesty, and flavor-packed pasta salad made with cheese tortellini, Italian salami, crisp veggies, and a bold homemade vinaigrette. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or weekday meal prep!

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6–8 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
    • For the salad:
    • 1 (20 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
    • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
    • 1/2 cup black or Kalamata olives, sliced
    • 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
    • 1 cup diced salami or pepperoni
    • 1 cup mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
    • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil
    • Optional: 1/2 cup pepperoncini or roasted red peppers

 

  • For the dressing:
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Cook tortellini according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
  2. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  3. While the tortellini cools, prep all salad ingredients: halve tomatoes and mozzarella, slice olives and onions, and dice salami.
  4. In a large bowl, combine tortellini, tomatoes, olives, onion, salami, mozzarella, herbs, and optional add-ins.
  5. Pour dressing over the top and toss well to coat.
  6. Chill for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Toss again before serving and adjust seasoning or dressing if needed.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add extra mozzarella or veggies.
  • Make ahead 1–2 days in advance for best flavor—just keep extra dressing on the side.
  • Add-ins like grilled zucchini, artichokes, or chickpeas are delicious twists.
  • Use gluten-free tortellini if needed—just handle gently after cooking.
  • Author: Selena Trump
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: No-Cook (after boiling)
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 410
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 27g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: tortellini pasta salad, italian salad, potluck recipes, summer side dishes