Tortellini Pasta Salad Recipe
This Tortellini Pasta Salad is loaded with cheese-filled tortellini, crisp vegetables, mozzarella, salami, and a zesty Italian dressing. It's a fresh, flavorful side dish that's perfect for cookouts, potlucks, meal prep lunches, and summer gatherings.
Unlike traditional pasta salad, the cheese tortellini adds extra flavor and makes this dish hearty enough to serve as a light meal.
The Origins of Tortellini Pasta Salad
Tortellini originated in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy and is traditionally filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables. Over time, American home cooks began using refrigerated cheese tortellini in cold pasta salads, creating a more substantial version of classic pasta salad.
Today, tortellini pasta salad is a favorite for picnics, BBQs, and holiday gatherings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Perfect make-ahead dish
Packed with flavor
Great for potlucks and cookouts
Easy meal prep lunch
Tastes even better the next day
Ingredients
For the Salad
20 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
½ red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup mozzarella pearls
6 ounces salami, chopped
½ cup black olives, sliced
¼ cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing
¾ cup Italian dressing
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the tortellini according to package directions.
Drain and rinse under cold water.
Allow to cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Slice the tomatoes.
Dice the cucumber and bell pepper.
Thinly slice the red onion.
Chop the parsley.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl whisk together:
Italian dressing
Red wine vinegar
Italian seasoning
Garlic powder
Black pepper
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl combine:
Tortellini
Tomatoes
Cucumber
Bell pepper
Red onion
Mozzarella pearls
Salami
Black olives
Pepperoncini
Parsley
Step 5: Toss and Chill
Pour dressing over the salad.
Toss until evenly coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
What to Serve with Tortellini Pasta Salad
Burgers
Grilled Chicken
BBQ Ribs
Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Sliders
Hot Dogs
Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Corn Salad
Watermelon Feta Salad
Variations
Chicken Tortellini Pasta Salad
Add diced grilled chicken for extra protein.
Mediterranean Tortellini Salad
Add feta cheese, cucumbers, and Kalamata olives.
Creamy Tortellini Pasta Salad
Mix half Italian dressing and half ranch dressing.
Vegetarian Tortellini Salad
Omit the salami and add extra vegetables.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
If needed, add a little extra dressing before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make tortellini pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes. It actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours.
What kind of tortellini should I use?
Cheese tortellini is the most popular option, but spinach or meat-filled tortellini also work well.
Can I use bottled dressing?
Absolutely. Store-bought Italian dressing is a great time-saving option.
More Summer Side Dishes You'll Love
Italian Pasta Salad
Corn Salad
Watermelon Feta Salad
Cucumber Tomato Salad
Macaroni Salad
Potato Salad
Coleslaw
Summer Cookout Side Dishes
Final Thoughts
This Tortellini Pasta Salad is fresh, colorful, and packed with flavor. Loaded with cheese tortellini, vegetables, mozzarella, and Italian dressing, it's a crowd-pleasing side dish that's perfect for every summer gathering.