A vibrant and flavorful pasta salad, the Salami-Mozzarella Tortellini Salad is a perfect blend of savory ingredients and fresh, bright flavors. This dish is ideal for potlucks, picnics, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. The combination of tender cheese tortellini, savory salami, creamy mozzarella, and tangy Italian dressing creates a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to be a crowd favorite. Whether served as a side dish or a light meal on its own, this salad is both satisfying and refreshing, making it a versatile option for any occasion.

What makes this salad truly special is how quick and easy it is to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a dish that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, which allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. So, whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or bringing a dish to a family gathering, this Salami-Mozzarella Tortellini Pasta Salad is sure to stand out as a delicious and hassle-free option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This pasta salad comes together in just 20 minutes with minimal cooking involved, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

2. Full of Flavor

The combination of salami, mozzarella, olives, and basil delivers a burst of savory, salty, and fresh flavors, while the tangy Italian dressing ties everything together perfectly.

3. Versatile

You can easily customize this salad by adding your favorite ingredients like peppers, onions, or different cheeses, making it a perfect dish to adapt based on personal tastes.

4. Make-Ahead Friendly

This salad can be made ahead and refrigerated for a few hours, allowing the flavors to develop and making it a great dish for meal prep or a stress-free party offering.

5. Crowd-Pleasing

With its hearty ingredients and refreshing flavors, this pasta salad is loved by both kids and adults, making it a safe bet for large gatherings or family meals.

Ingredients

Refrigerated cheese tortellini
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Sliced black olives
Diced salami
Diced mozzarella cheese
Chopped fresh basil
Italian dressing
Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Omit the salami and add more vegetables, such as cucumbers, red onions, or roasted red peppers, for a lighter version.
Spicy Kick: Add some red pepper flakes to the Italian dressing or toss in some sliced pepperoncini for a spicy twist.
Different Cheese: Swap mozzarella for other cheeses like provolone, feta, or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
Grilled Chicken: Add grilled chicken for an extra protein boost and to turn this salad into a more filling main course.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to cool it down.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, halved cherry tomatoes, black olives, diced salami, diced mozzarella cheese, and chopped fresh basil.

Step 3: Add the Dressing

Drizzle the Italian dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Season

Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed for flavor.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Tips for Making the Recipe

For the best texture, make sure to rinse the tortellini under cold water after cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
If you prefer a stronger flavor, let the salad sit in the refrigerator for longer—overnight will allow the dressing to infuse into the ingredients.
Add the dressing just before serving to keep the salad fresh and avoid it becoming soggy.
If you want to make the salad ahead of time, store the ingredients separately and toss them together just before serving for the freshest result.

How to Serve

This pasta salad can be served as a side dish alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or a summer barbecue spread. It also makes a great light main dish on a warm day when you need something refreshing yet satisfying. If serving for a crowd, consider pairing it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to complete the meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even better the next day.

Freezing

This pasta salad is not ideal for freezing, as the texture of the pasta and cheese may change once frozen and thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for short-term use.

Reheating

Reheat the salad if you prefer it warm by gently microwaving it or letting it come to room temperature. However, it’s best served cold or at room temperature for maximum flavor and freshness.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?

Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just make sure to cook it according to the instructions on the package and rinse it with cold water after draining.

2. Can I use a different dressing?

Yes, you can substitute the Italian dressing with other types of dressings such as balsamic vinaigrette or ranch, depending on your preference.

3. Can I add more vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like cucumbers, bell peppers, or red onions for more crunch and flavor.

4. How long does this salad last in the fridge?

This salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, but for the freshest taste, it’s best eaten within the first day or two.

5. Can I make this salad without olives?

Yes, you can omit the olives if you don’t like them, or substitute them with another ingredient like pickled peppers or artichoke hearts.

6. Can I add grilled chicken to this pasta salad?

Yes, adding grilled chicken is a great way to make this salad more filling and turn it into a complete meal.

7. Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is not gluten-free as it contains tortellini, which is typically made with wheat flour. You can use gluten-free tortellini for a gluten-free version.

8. Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight to allow the flavors to blend.

9. Can I use fresh mozzarella instead of diced mozzarella?

Yes, fresh mozzarella can be used, though you may want to tear it into smaller pieces to make it easier to mix into the salad.

10. What if I don’t have fresh basil?

If you don’t have fresh basil, you can substitute dried basil or use a different fresh herb like parsley or oregano.

Conclusion

Salami-Mozzarella Tortellini Pasta Salad is a delicious, versatile, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its mix of savory ingredients, fresh herbs, and tangy Italian dressing, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it. Whether served as a side or a main dish, this pasta salad offers both flavor and convenience, making it an excellent choice for gatherings, meal prepping, or casual meals. Quick to prepare and even better when made ahead, this salad is a crowd-pleasing favorite you’ll return to again and again.