Description
This Meaty Tortellini Salad is a vibrant and hearty cold pasta salad featuring cheese tortellini, diced ham or salami, fresh vegetables, and a zesty Italian dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a satisfying main course, this dish blends creamy cheese, savory meats, and crisp veggies for a refreshing and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 1 (20-ounce) package cheese tortellini, cooked and cooled
- 1 cup cooked ham or salami, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup black olives, sliced
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or cubed provolone
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Dressing
- ¾ cup Italian dressing
Instructions
- Cook the Tortellini: Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta down.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the cooled tortellini, diced ham or salami, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced black olives, thinly sliced red onion, and shredded mozzarella or cubed provolone cheese. Toss gently to mix all the components evenly.
- Add Dressing and Toss: Pour the Italian dressing over the salad mixture and toss thoroughly until everything is evenly coated with the dressing. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill properly.
- Serve: Before serving, give the salad a quick toss to redistribute the dressing and flavors. Garnish with the chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes
- This salad can be prepared up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator for convenience.
- For variety, swap the ham or salami with grilled chicken or pepperoni.
- Add extra vegetables such as bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or banana peppers to enhance flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad, Main Course
- Method: Boiling, No-Cook
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
