When it comes to vibrant, crowd-pleasing dishes that are as satisfying as they are simple to prepare, Italian Tortellini Salad is a winner every time. Loaded with cheesy tortellini, colorful veggies, savory meats, and tossed in a bold Italian dressing, this dish is a perfect mix of texture and flavor. Whether you’re prepping for a picnic, potluck, or just craving a hearty cold salad, this recipe delivers freshness and bold Italian flair in every bite.
🌟 Why You’ll Love This Salad
- Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes
- Packed with flavor from marinated ingredients and zesty dressing
- Perfect for meal prep, parties, or outdoor gatherings
- Customizable to your preferences and pantry
- Stays fresh in the fridge for several days
🛒 Ingredients
Base:
- 1 (20 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumbers, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup pepperoncini peppers, chopped
- 1/2 cup artichoke hearts, quartered (optional)
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
Proteins & Cheese:
- 1/2 cup diced salami or pepperoni (optional)
- 1/2 cup mozzarella pearls or cubed mozzarella
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Dressing:
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
👩🍳 Instructions
✅ 1. Cook the Tortellini
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook tortellini according to package directions—usually 3–5 minutes.
- Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta.
✅ 2. Prep the Ingredients
- While pasta is cooking, chop vegetables, slice meats, and drain any canned ingredients.
- Mix all solid ingredients (except dressing) in a large salad bowl.
✅ 3. Assemble the Salad
- Add cooled tortellini to the bowl.
- Drizzle with Italian dressing and balsamic vinegar.
- Toss everything gently to coat.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Sprinkle Parmesan and parsley on top.
✅ 4. Chill and Serve
- Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Serve cold or at room temperature.
- Garnish with extra herbs, cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Main dish for lunch or light dinner
- Side dish for BBQs, picnics, or potlucks
- Meal prep—makes 4–6 portions, great for grab-and-go lunches
🥄 Tips & Variations
- Use tricolor tortellini for extra visual appeal
- Add fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or dill for a garden-fresh touch
- Make it vegetarian by skipping meat and doubling the veggies
- Add crunch with pine nuts or croutons just before serving
- Make your own dressing with olive oil, vinegar, garlic, mustard, and herbs
🧊 Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Toss again before serving to redistribute dressing.
- Avoid freezing as the pasta texture will change.
💬 Final Thoughts
Italian Tortellini Salad is a versatile dish that combines rustic Mediterranean charm with modern convenience. It’s hearty, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable, making it a reliable go-to for everything from lunchboxes to festive feasts. Every forkful delivers a burst of savory, tangy, cheesy goodness that’s guaranteed to keep you coming back for more