Description
This Tortellini Salad features tender cheese tortellini mixed with savory salami, creamy mozzarella, and fresh vegetables, all drizzled with a zesty dressing. It’s a perfect dish for summer picnics or light lunches, offering a satisfying and easy-to-make option for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
Instructions
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Once boiling, add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions (usually 3-5 minutes) until they float and are tender.
- Prepare a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
- Drain the cooked tortellini and transfer them to the ice water for a few minutes to cool.
- After cooling, drain again and set aside in a large mixing bowl.
- Dice the salami into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Halve the fresh mozzarella balls.
- Slice the cherry tomatoes in half.
- Slice the black olives and finely chop the red onion.
- Chop the fresh basil.
- In a small bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Italian seasoning.
- Whisk until well combined or shake in a jar.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In the 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 and coat evenly.
- Gently toss the salad with a spatula or large spoon, being careful not to break the tortellini or mozzarella.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Cover the salad with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss to redistribute the dressing.
- Serve in individual bowls or on a large platter, garnished with additional fresh basil or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- This salad can be made a few hours in advance, making it perfect for gatherings.
- Feel free to customize the ingredients by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes