Description
A refreshing Italian-style pasta salad with tortellini, salami, mozzarella, and crisp vegetables tossed in zesty Italian dressing. Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or a light meal.
Ingredients
- 12 oz tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 6 oz salami, diced
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup olives, sliced (optional)
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions (about 5–7 minutes for fresh or 8–10 minutes for frozen).
2. Drain the tortellini in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced salami, cubed mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion. Add olives if using.
4. Add the cooled tortellini to the bowl with the other ingredients.
5. Drizzle Italian dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Refrigerate the salad for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired and serve cold.
Notes
This pasta salad can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Feel free to add or substitute vegetables such as artichokes, spinach, or additional bell peppers.
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg