Salami Mozzarella Tortellini Salad is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of Italy in a refreshing and satisfying way. As I prepared this salad, I couldn’t help but think about the cultural significance of tortellini, which has been a beloved staple in Italian cuisine for centuries. Originating from the Emilia-Romagna region, tortellini is often filled with a mixture of meats and cheeses, making it a perfect base for a vibrant salad.

People love this Salami Mozzarella Tortellini Salad not only for its incredible taste but also for its delightful texture. The combination of chewy tortellini, savory salami, and creamy mozzarella creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient to make, making it an ideal choice for potlucks, picnics, or a quick weeknight dinner. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your household!

Ingredients:

8 ounces of cheese tortellini
4 ounces of salami, diced
4 ounces of fresh mozzarella balls, halved
1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup of black olives, sliced
1/4 cup of red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup of fresh basil, chopped
1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Tortellini

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt will help flavor the tortellini as it cooks.
Once the water is boiling, add the cheese tortellini. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes, until they float to the top and are tender.
While the tortellini is cooking, prepare a bowl of ice water. This will help stop the cooking process and keep the tortellini from becoming mushy.
Once the tortellini is cooked, drain it in a colander and immediately transfer it to the bowl of ice water. Let it sit for a few minutes to cool down.
After the tortellini has cooled, drain it again and set it aside in a large mixing bowl.

Preparing the Salad Ingredients

While the tortellini is cooling, take the salami and dice it into small, bite-sized pieces. I like to use a sharp knife for this to make the process easier.
Next, halve the fresh mozzarella balls. If you can find the small ones, they work perfectly, but if you only have larger ones, just cut them into smaller pieces.
Now, grab your cherry tomatoes and slice them in half. This adds a nice burst of flavor and color to the salad.
Slice the black olives and finely chop the red onion. I recommend using a sharp knife for the onion to avoid tearing up too much!
Finally, chop the fresh basil. I love the aroma of fresh basil; it really elevates the dish.

Making the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Italian seasoning. This dressing is simple but packed with flavor.
Whisk the ingredients together until they are well combined. You can also shake them in a jar if you prefer.
Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste. I usually start with a pinch of each and adjust as needed.

Assembling the Salad

In the large mixing bowl with the cooled tortellini, add the diced salami, halved mozzarella, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced black olives, chopped red onion, and fresh basil.
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Make sure to coat everything evenly for the best flavor.
Gently toss the salad using a spatula or large spoon. Be careful not to break the tortellini or mozzarella balls while mixing.
Once everything is well combined, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You might want to add a bit more salt, pepper, or even a splash more vinegar for acidity.

Chilling and Serving

Cover the salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a gentle toss again to redistribute the dressing.
Serve the salad in individual bowls or on a large platter. It’s perfect for a summer picnic, potluck, or as a light lunch.
For an extra touch, you can garnish with additional fresh basil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Storage Tips

Conclusion:

In summary, this Salami Mozzarella Tortellini Salad is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their meal game with minimal effort. The combination of savory salami, creamy mozzarella, and tender tortellini creates a delightful medley of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds dancing. Not only is it a perfect dish for a quick lunch or a light dinner, but it also shines as a crowd-pleasing side at picnics, potlucks, or barbecues. For serving suggestions, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh basil or a handful of arugula for an extra layer of freshness. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or add in some cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and sweetness. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the salami for pepperoni or even grilled chicken for a different twist on this classic salad. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Salami Mozzarella Tortellini Salad a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s celebrate the joy of cooking together!