Today I’m excited to share a recipe that’s been a staple at my family gatherings for as long as I can remember: the Tortellini Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing. It’s one of those dishes that’s not only delicious but also brings back a flood of happy memories. Picture this: a sunny summer afternoon, family and friends buzzing around the backyard, kids playing, and the unmistakable aroma of delicious food wafting through the air. That’s when this pasta salad shines! It’s a crowd-pleaser, and I’ve had people ask me for the recipe almost every time I’ve brought it to a potluck or BBQ.
What I love most about this tortellini pasta salad is how effortlessly it comes together. You know those dishes that make you look like a culinary genius when, in fact, they’re pretty straightforward? This is definitely one of them. It’s packed with fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil, giving it a refreshing taste that pairs perfectly with the savory punch from the salami and Kalamata olives. And let’s not forget the cheese tortellini, which adds a comforting, hearty element that everyone loves.
Now, I’ve tried countless pasta salads over the years, but there’s something special about using tortellini. It’s just a little more indulgent and makes the dish feel that much more special. Paired with a zesty Italian dressing, every bite is a burst of flavor that’s as vibrant as it is satisfying. Plus, it’s one of those salads that actually gets better with time. Letting it chill in the fridge allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, making it a perfect make-ahead option for entertaining.
If you’re like me and enjoy a good balance of flavors and textures in your meals, you’ll appreciate how each ingredient in this salad plays its part. From the creamy mozzarella and juicy tomatoes to the briny olives and spicy salami, it’s a symphony of flavors that come together in the most delightful way. So, whether you’re planning a casual get-together or just want to treat your family to something special, give this Tortellini Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing a try. It’s bound to become a favorite in your household too!
How to Make Tortellini Pasta Salad With Italian Dressing
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Ingredients:
- 8 oz cheese tortellini
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls
- 10 oz cherry tomatoes
- 8 oz salami (chopped)
- 2 tbsp fresh basil (chopped)
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing
Directions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to the package directions, then drain and transfer them to a large bowl to cool.
- As the tortellini cools, prepare your ingredients: chop the salami, slice the cherry tomatoes in half, halve the mozzarella balls, and finely chop the basil.
- Combine the cooled tortellini with the salami, tomatoes, mozzarella, olives, and basil in the bowl.
- Pour the Italian dressing over the mixture and gently toss everything so that the ingredients are well coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Serve chilled and enjoy each flavorful bite!
Don’t Have Mozzarella Balls? Here’s What to Use Instead
If you find yourself without mozzarella balls, don’t fret! You can easily substitute them with diced mozzarella cheese or even feta for a tangy twist. If you’re looking to keep it dairy-free, consider using marinated tofu cubes as a delicious alternative. This pasta salad is very forgiving, so feel free to get creative based on what’s in your pantry.
Best Ways to Store Tortellini Pasta Salad Leftovers
This pasta salad stores beautifully in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container and it’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Before serving, give it a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing and flavors. If you plan to store it for more than a day, you might want to add a touch more dressing as the pasta tends to absorb it over time.
Perfect Pairings for Tortellini Pasta Salad
This salad is a versatile dish that goes well with many accompaniments. Consider serving it alongside a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a fantastic side dish for any main course. You can also garnish it with a sprinkle of parmesan and fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of flavor and elegance.
Tricks to Get the Best Out of This Recipe
For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Opt for vine-ripened tomatoes and fresh basil for that extra burst of freshness. When cooking the tortellini, be sure to not overcook them to maintain their delightful bite. Lastly, let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—the longer, the better, as this allows the flavors to fully develop.
Adding a Seasonal Spin to Tortellini Pasta Salad
In the summer, add fresh corn kernels or grilled zucchini for a seasonal variation. During winter, try incorporating roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for a touch of warmth. Springtime? Throw in some asparagus or peas for a fresh twist. You can adapt this salad to fit the produce available in any season, keeping it exciting all year round.
FAQs:
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This tortellini pasta salad is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it the day before an event, allowing the flavors to meld in the refrigerator overnight. Just give it a good stir before serving to ensure everything is well mixed and add a bit more dressing if needed.
What type of tortellini should I use?
Feel free to use any cheese tortellini you prefer, whether it’s store-bought or homemade. You can also experiment with different fillings, such as spinach and ricotta, to add variety. Just ensure it’s cooked al dente, as this will provide the best texture for the salad.
How can I make this salad vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the salami and consider adding more veggies for texture and flavor. Roasted red peppers, artichokes, or sun-dried tomatoes work well. You can also add toasted pine nuts or chickpeas for extra protein.
Can I use a different type of dressing?
Yes, you can customize the dressing according to your taste preferences. A balsamic vinaigrette or a lemon herb dressing could work beautifully. You can even make your own dressing by mixing olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and Italian seasoning.
Is this salad good for meal prep?
This tortellini pasta salad is excellent for meal prep. Divvy it up into individual containers and you have a tasty, ready-to-eat meal for lunch or dinner. Just be mindful to store it in the fridge and consume it within a few days for the best flavor and freshness.
What if I don’t have fresh basil?
If fresh basil is unavailable, dried basil can be used in a pinch, though it won’t offer the same vibrant flavor. Alternatively, you can use fresh parsley or even a bit of arugula for a peppery twist. The key is to balance the flavors to maintain the salad’s refreshing taste.
Tortellini Pasta Salad With Italian Dressing
Equipment
- large pot
- mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 8 oz cheese tortellini
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls
- 10 oz cherry tomatoes
- 8 oz salami chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh basil chopped
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing
Instructions
For Tortellini:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add the cheese tortellini. Cook as directed on the package, typically around 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain and place the tortellini in a large mixing bowl to cool.
For Salad Assembly:
- While the tortellini cool, prepare the other ingredients: chop the salami, slice the cherry tomatoes, and halve the mozzarella balls. Finely chop the fresh basil as well.
- Combine the cooled tortellini with the salami, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, Kalamata olives, and basil in the mixing bowl.
- Drizzle the Italian dressing over the mixture, and gently toss everything together until well coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve chilled and enjoy the refreshing blend of flavors!
