This Easy Italian Tortellini Salad is a colorful mix of chewy tortellini, fresh veggies, and tasty Italian dressing. It’s a refreshing dish that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner!
I love how quick and simple this salad is to whip up. Just cook the tortellini, chop some veggies, and toss it all together. It’s so good that I could eat it every day! 🍅🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: I like to use cheese tortellini for its delightful flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using whole wheat or spinach tortellini. Frozen tortellini works just as well! It’s quick and easy.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a burst of flavor. If they’re out of season, feel free to substitute with grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes. Just make sure to drain excess juice!
Cucumber: Crunchy cucumbers bring a refreshing taste. For a twist, you could swap it with bell peppers or even zucchini for a different texture.
Salami or Pepperoni: I love salami for its bold taste. For a lighter version, you can use turkey or chicken slices. Alternatively, omit the meat for a vegetarian option!
Italian Dressing: Store-bought is convenient, but you can make your own with olive oil, vinegar, herbs, and spices. This way, you control the flavor and ingredients!
How Do I Cook Tortellini Perfectly?
Cooking tortellini is straightforward, but a few tips can elevate your dish. The right boil time and preparation help keep it tender and flavorful.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. This enhances the taste right from the start!
- Add the tortellini and stir gently to prevent sticking.
- Follow the package instructions for cooking time, usually around 3-5 minutes for fresh tortellini, and 8-10 minutes for frozen.
- Once they float to the top, they’re done! Drain them, but don’t rinse if you want to keep some starch for dressing absorption.
Easy Italian Tortellini Salad with Fresh Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1 cup diced salami or pepperoni
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls or diced mozzarella
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
This delightful tortellini salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. All in all, you’ll have a delicious salad ready to enjoy in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions—usually around 3-5 minutes for fresh tortellini or 8-10 minutes for frozen. Once they float to the top, they’re done! Drain the tortellini and rinse them under cold water to cool them down. Set aside.
2. Combine the Veggies and Meat:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked tortellini, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, sliced black olives, diced salami or pepperoni, and fresh mozzarella. Give it a gentle stir to combine all those colorful ingredients.
3. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the Italian dressing over the mixture and add the chopped fresh parsley. Toss everything together gently to coat each piece evenly with the dressing. This is what makes the salad flavorful and delicious!
4. Season and Chill:
Season the salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you’d like, garnish the top with extra parsley for a beautiful presentation. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld and make the salad even tastier!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, your Easy Italian Tortellini Salad is ready to serve! Enjoy it as a refreshing light meal, a side dish, or even at a picnic or potluck. It’s sure to be a hit!
Bon appétit! 🍽️
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works great in this salad. Just follow the package instructions for cooking time, and make sure to drain and cool them after cooking, just like fresh tortellini.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the salad up to a day in advance. Just make sure to keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will actually get even better as they meld together.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The dressing may soak into the tortellini a bit, so give it a good stir before serving again!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies! Bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or even spinach are great additions. Just be sure to keep the proportions similar for a balanced flavor.
