Salami-Mozzarella Tortellini Pasta Salad is a vibrant and hearty dish that combines the best of savory, creamy, and tangy flavors. With tender cheese tortellini, zesty salami, fresh mozzarella pearls, and a variety of colorful vegetables, this pasta salad makes the perfect side dish or a light meal on its own. The Italian dressing, seasoned with oregano and a pinch of salt and pepper, brings all the ingredients together in a delicious, satisfying way. Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner, a BBQ, or a picnic, this salad is sure to be a hit with everyone.

The beauty of this salad lies in its simplicity and versatility. The ingredients are easy to find, and the dish comes together quickly. The longer the salad sits in the fridge, the more the flavors meld, making it an excellent option for meal prep or make-ahead gatherings. Plus, with options for ingredient substitutions like turkey pepperoni or fresh herbs, you can easily adjust the salad to suit your preferences. This Salami-Mozzarella Tortellini Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleaser that’s both satisfying and full of vibrant flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Easy to Make

This salad is incredibly simple to prepare, with minimal cooking involved, making it a perfect choice for busy days.

2. Packed with Flavor

The combination of savory salami, creamy mozzarella, and tangy dressing creates a flavorful experience with every bite.

3. Versatile

You can easily swap out ingredients, such as using turkey pepperoni for a leaner option, or adding other veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers.

4. Ideal for Meal Prep

This pasta salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to blend and develop even further.

5. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a summer picnic, BBQ, or weeknight dinner, this salad is a great addition to any meal or gathering.

Ingredients

Cheese tortellini (cooked and cooled)
Diced salami (or turkey pepperoni)
Mozzarella pearls
Cherry tomatoes (halved)
Black olives (sliced)
Red onion (finely chopped)
Fresh basil (chopped)
Italian dressing
Dried oregano
Salt
Black pepper

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Replace salami with roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes for a vegetarian twist.
Add More Protein: For a more substantial meal, add grilled chicken, ham, or chickpeas.
Dressing Alternatives: If you prefer a lighter option, swap the Italian dressing with a balsamic vinaigrette or lemon-based dressing.
Extra Crunch: Add some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture that complements the creamy mozzarella.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Prepare the tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water to cool it down. Set the cooked tortellini aside.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, diced salami, mozzarella pearls, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced black olives, finely chopped red onion, and fresh basil.

Step 3: Dress the Salad

Pour the Italian dressing over the pasta mixture. Add dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to taste. Toss gently to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Once chilled, serve and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Cool the Pasta: Make sure to rinse the tortellini with cold water after cooking to stop the cooking process and avoid the pasta becoming mushy.
Customize the Dressing: If you prefer a creamier dressing, mix in some sour cream or Greek yogurt with the Italian dressing for extra richness.
Season Well: Taste the salad after tossing and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or dressing as needed.
Chill for Best Flavor: Allowing the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes lets the flavors meld together, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil really elevates the flavor of this salad, but you can also add fresh parsley or oregano for an extra herbaceous touch.

How to Serve

Salami-Mozzarella Tortellini Pasta Salad is best served chilled or at room temperature. It works wonderfully as a side dish for grilled meats, burgers, or sandwiches. You can also serve it as a standalone lunch or dinner with some fresh bread on the side. Pair it with a light white wine or iced tea for a refreshing and satisfying meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld.

Freezing

This pasta salad is not suitable for freezing, as the ingredients, especially the mozzarella, can become rubbery and the dressing may break down.

Reheating

Reheating is not necessary for this dish, as it’s best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or farfalle.

2. Can I use a different type of meat?

If you don’t like salami, turkey pepperoni, ham, or even cooked bacon are great alternatives.

3. Can I add more vegetables to the salad?

Yes, you can add cucumbers, bell peppers, or even arugula for extra crunch and freshness.

4. How long should I refrigerate the salad?

It’s best to refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes, but you can chill it for several hours or even overnight for a more developed flavor.

5. Can I use fresh mozzarella instead of mozzarella pearls?

Yes, fresh mozzarella can be used instead of mozzarella pearls. Just be sure to tear it into bite-sized pieces.

6. Can I use a different dressing?

Yes, you can swap the Italian dressing for a balsamic vinaigrette, ranch dressing, or even a homemade lemon vinaigrette.

7. How do I store leftovers?

Store the leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

8. Can I add cheese to the salad?

Yes, you can add additional cheese such as parmesan or provolone for more flavor.

9. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

10. Is this salad gluten-free?

This salad is not gluten-free unless you use gluten-free tortellini or another gluten-free pasta alternative.

Conclusion

Salami-Mozzarella Tortellini Pasta Salad is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a BBQ, or a picnic, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of tender pasta, savory salami, creamy mozzarella, and zesty dressing is deliciously balanced, and with the ability to customize the ingredients, you can make this salad your own. With just a little prep, you can create a flavorful dish that everyone will love.