If you’re looking for a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to eat, this Salami-Mozzarella Tortellini Pasta Salad is your answer. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or even a quick weekday lunch, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. Imagine tender tortellini mingling with cubes of creamy mozzarella, savory bites of salami, and the fresh crunch of cucumber and tomatoes—all brought together by a tangy Italian dressing. It’s the kind of salad that feels like a mini celebration in every bite.
I first whipped this up for a summer barbecue when I was scrambling for a dish that would impress but not stress me out. Let me tell you, it was a hit! Even the picky eaters came back for seconds. The best part? You can make it ahead of time, giving you one less thing to worry about when entertaining.
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Start with a 16-ounce package of tortellini pasta. Any variety works—cheese, spinach, or even a combo—but I’m partial to classic cheese tortellini for that creamy, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. Usually, it takes about 7-9 minutes to get them perfectly al dente. While the tortellini cook, the aroma alone will have you dreaming of the finished salad.
Once the tortellini are tender, drain them and give them a quick rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside to cool completely. Trust me, cool tortellini are key here—no one wants melted mozzarella or wilted veggies.
Step 2: Prep Your Ingredients
While the tortellini cool, gather the rest of the salad components:
- 1 cup of salami, diced: Choose your favorite variety—spicy, mild, or even a mix.
- 1 cup of mozzarella cheese: Either cube it yourself or opt for those adorable mozzarella pearls for convenience.
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved: Their natural sweetness adds a lovely burst of flavor.
- 1 cup of cucumber, diced: This gives the salad its refreshing crunch.
Chop everything into bite-sized pieces so that every forkful delivers a balanced mix of flavors. You can also customize here by adding extras like bell peppers, red onions, or olives if you’re feeling adventurous.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Grab a large mixing bowl—bigger than you think you’ll need because this salad is all about tossing everything together without making a mess. Add the cooled tortellini, diced salami, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber. At this stage, it’s already looking vibrant and inviting, but we’re just getting started.
Bringing It All Together – Dressing, Tossing, and Tips
Step 4: Make the Dressing
Now that your salad ingredients are prepped and waiting, it’s time to whip up the simple yet flavorful dressing that ties everything together. For this recipe, we’re going with a classic Italian-style vinaigrette that complements the savory and fresh elements perfectly.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Opt for a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- 2 tablespoons vinegar: This adds the perfect tangy kick.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme is ideal, but feel free to use what you have on hand.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t underestimate the magic of seasoning—this simple step enhances every ingredient.
To make the dressing, grab a small mixing bowl or jar with a lid. Combine the olive oil, vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Whisk until everything is emulsified, or, if you’re using a jar, give it a good shake. In just a few seconds, you’ll have a fragrant, golden dressing that’s ready to elevate your salad.
Step 5: Dress the Salad
Here comes the fun part—bringing all those vibrant ingredients together! Drizzle the freshly made dressing over the tortellini mixture in the bowl. Start with about two-thirds of the dressing; you can always add more later if needed.
Using a large spoon or tongs, gently toss the salad until all the ingredients are evenly coated. Be gentle with the tortellini and mozzarella to avoid breaking or mashing them. This step is where the salad starts to shine, as the dressing works its way into every nook and cranny.
If you taste a piece at this point (and let’s be honest, you should), you’ll already get a sense of how delicious this salad is. But patience pays off—the next step is crucial for flavor development.
Step 6: Refrigerate and Let the Flavors Meld
Cover your salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, giving the salad that irresistible “wow” factor. If you’re making it ahead for a party or meal prep, it’s even better the next day!
Pro Tips and Variations
- Add Some Color: Dice up red, yellow, or orange bell peppers for a pop of color and added crunch. Red onions or Kalamata olives also make excellent additions if you’re a fan of bold flavors.
- Switch Up the Protein: Don’t have salami on hand? Swap it for diced ham, grilled chicken, or even pepperoni for a slightly different twist.
- Go Green: For extra freshness, toss in a handful of baby spinach or arugula before serving.
- Make It Vegan or Gluten-Free: Substitute the tortellini with gluten-free pasta, use dairy-free mozzarella, and add chickpeas or marinated artichokes for a protein boost.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
When it’s time to serve, give the salad one last toss to redistribute any dressing that may have settled at the bottom. For a final flourish, garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese. Serve it chilled, and watch as it quickly becomes the star of the meal!
Frequently Asked Questions About Salami-Mozzarella Tortellini Pasta Salad
1. Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, this salad tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. The flavors have more time to meld together, creating a richer and more cohesive taste. Just give it a toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.
2. How long does this salad last in the refrigerator?
Stored in an airtight container, this pasta salad will stay fresh for 3–4 days in the refrigerator. However, the tortellini might absorb some of the dressing over time, so you can add a splash of olive oil or make a little extra dressing to refresh it before serving.
3. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of tortellini?
Sure! While tortellini adds a deliciously cheesy bite, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like penne, farfalle, or fusilli. If you want to keep the cheesy goodness, consider tossing in some crumbled feta or grated Parmesan with regular pasta.
4. What other dressings could I use for this salad?
If you’d like to switch things up, try a balsamic vinaigrette or a creamy Italian dressing. A pesto-based dressing is another fantastic option, adding a fresh and herbaceous twist.
5. Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Yes! Simply leave out the salami or replace it with a plant-based protein like marinated tofu, chickpeas, or grilled vegetables. The salad will still be hearty and delicious.
6. What’s the best way to serve this salad at a gathering?
This salad looks gorgeous in a clear glass bowl, showing off its vibrant colors. For an extra touch, garnish it with fresh herbs like parsley or basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese just before serving.
7. Can I freeze this pasta salad?
Unfortunately, this salad isn’t ideal for freezing. The tortellini and fresh vegetables may become mushy when thawed. It’s best to make it fresh and store leftovers in the fridge.
Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love This Salad
This Salami-Mozzarella Tortellini Pasta Salad is more than just a recipe—it’s a meal solution, a party pleaser, and a reliable go-to when you want something quick, delicious, and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, packing lunch for the week, or simply craving something fresh and flavorful, this salad ticks all the boxes.
Its versatility is part of its charm. You can easily adapt the ingredients to suit your preferences, turning it into a truly customizable dish. Plus, the make-ahead convenience means less stress and more time to enjoy with friends and family.
So go ahead, give this recipe a try! I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Did you add any personal twists? Share your experience in the comments below—I can’t wait to see how you made it your own.
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Salami-Mozzarella Tortellini Pasta Salad
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Description
This Salami-Mozzarella Tortellini Pasta Salad is a delightful medley of flavors and textures, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a refreshing meal on a warm day. The tender tortellini pairs beautifully with the savory salami, creamy mozzarella, and crisp veggies, all tossed in a tangy Italian dressing.
Ingredients
For the salad:
1 (16 oz) package tortellini pasta
1 cup salami, diced
1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed or pearl-sized
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
For the dressing:
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp vinegar
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Tortellini:
Prepare the tortellini according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and allow it to cool completely.
2️⃣ Combine Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, diced salami, chopped mozzarella, halved cherry tomatoes, and diced cucumber.
3️⃣ Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well blended.
4️⃣ Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the dressing over the tortellini mixture. Toss until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
5️⃣ Refrigerate:
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Notes
- Customize the veggies by adding bell peppers, red onions, or olives for added variety.
- This salad can be made a day ahead, making it a convenient choice for gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6-8
