Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad

Featured in: Supporting players for any meal

This vibrant Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad combines cheese-filled tortellini with fresh vegetables like cucumber, cherry tomatoes, olives, bell pepper, and pepperoncini. Savory mozzarella and salami add richness, while the homemade Italian dressing ties everything together. Make it ahead for picnics, potlucks, or as a quick, flavorful meal. Best served chilled for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. It stays fresh for 3-4 days, making it perfect for leftovers.
A woman in an apron is preparing a meal in a sunny kitchen filled with fresh vegetables and herbs.
Updated on Mon, 14 Apr 2025 19:20:55 GMT
A bowl of pasta with tomatoes and basil. Pin it
A bowl of pasta with tomatoes and basil. | myhomemaderecipe.com

This Italian tortellini pasta salad combines cheese-filled pasta with fresh vegetables, savory meats, and tangy dressing for a satisfying meal that works equally well as a side dish or light main course. I created this recipe for summer gatherings, but it has become my go-to for potlucks and meal prep throughout the year.

I originally made this for my daughter's graduation party where it disappeared within minutes. Since then, I've refined it countless times, discovering that letting the warm tortellini absorb some dressing is the secret to maximum flavor infusion.

Ingredients

  • Refrigerated cheese tortellini: The star of the show with pockets of creamy goodness in every bite
  • Cucumber: Adds refreshing crunch and lightness
  • Cherry tomatoes: Provide juicy bursts of sweetness use multicolored varieties for visual appeal
  • Black olives: Contribute briny depth and meaty texture
  • Orange bell pepper: Brings sweet crispness and vibrant color
  • Chopped pepperoncini: Delivers mild heat and tangy flavor
  • Fresh mozzarella balls: Create pockets of milky richness throughout
  • Sliced salami: Adds savory protein and distinctive flavor
  • Italian dressing: Binds everything together with herbs and acidity

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Dressing:
Follow your favorite Italian dressing recipe or use a high quality store bought version. The key is using a dressing with pronounced herbs and acidity to stand up to the pasta and other ingredients. If making homemade, allow it to rest at least 30 minutes before using so flavors can develop fully.
Cook the Tortellini:
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add approximately 1 tablespoon of salt. The water should taste like the sea. Add tortellini and cook according to package directions, typically 4 to 7 minutes. Test for doneness by sampling a piece. It should be tender but not mushy. Immediately drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Transfer to a large bowl and toss with half the dressing while still warm. This crucial step allows the pasta to absorb the flavors.
Add Fresh Components:
Gently fold in the cucumber, tomatoes, olives, bell pepper, pepperoncini, mozzarella balls, and salami. Use a rubber spatula or wooden spoon to combine everything without breaking the tortellini. Each ingredient adds a specific texture and flavor element, creating a balanced and interesting salad with every forkful.
Finalize Based on Serving Time:
For serving within an hour, add remaining dressing and toss gently. Allow to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes so flavors can meld together. For serving later, hold back the remaining dressing until just before serving to prevent the vegetables from releasing too much water and the pasta from absorbing all the dressing.
A bowl of pasta salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and cheese. Pin it
A bowl of pasta salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and cheese. | myhomemaderecipe.com

The pepperoncinis might seem like a minor addition, but they provide that perfect hint of acidity and subtle heat that elevates this from ordinary pasta salad to something special. My husband, who typically avoids pasta salads, asks for seconds whenever I make this version.

Storing Leftovers

This pasta salad maintains its quality for up to 3 days in the refrigerator stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually improve after about 24 hours as everything marinates together. If you plan to enjoy it over several days, consider reserving some of the dressing to refresh the salad before serving again, as the pasta will continue to absorb liquid while stored.

Smart Substitutions

This recipe welcomes adaptation based on dietary needs and preferences. Vegetarians can omit the salami and add extra cheese or roasted chickpeas for protein. For a gluten free version, use gluten free tortellini or substitute with a short gluten free pasta like fusilli. Dairy free versions work well with plant based cheese alternatives and focusing on the vibrant vegetables and dressing for flavor.

Serving Suggestions

While perfect on its own as a complete meal, this tortellini salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, Italian sausages, or a crusty loaf of ciabatta bread. For a full Italian inspired meal, serve alongside bruschetta or a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil to balance the richness of the pasta salad.

A bowl of pasta with tomatoes and olives. Pin it
A bowl of pasta with tomatoes and olives. | myhomemaderecipe.com

Try this recipe at your next gathering, and you'll be sure to impress your guests with its vibrant flavors and versatility.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this tortellini salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad is perfect for make-ahead preparation. Simply combine all ingredients except half the dressing, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, add the remaining dressing and toss. The salad actually tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to develop.
→ What can I substitute for cheese tortellini?
While cheese tortellini is traditional, you can substitute any filled pasta like ravioli or even unfilled pasta shapes like bow ties or rotini. Just adjust cooking times according to package directions for your chosen pasta.
→ Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the salami for a vegetarian version. You might want to add extra cheese like feta or parmesan for additional flavor, or include other vegetables like artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers for more substance.
→ How long does the tortellini salad stay fresh?
When properly refrigerated in an airtight container, this salad stays fresh for 3-4 days. The pasta may absorb some of the dressing over time, so you might want to add a splash of extra dressing or a drizzle of olive oil when serving leftovers.
→ What other vegetables can I add to this salad?
This salad is incredibly versatile. Consider adding artichoke hearts, red onion, spinach, marinated mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or even blanched broccoli florets. Just keep in mind that watery vegetables might release liquid over time.
→ Can I use store-bought Italian dressing instead of homemade?
Yes, you can substitute store-bought Italian dressing if you're short on time. For best results, look for a high-quality, refrigerated dressing rather than shelf-stable varieties, as they typically have fresher flavors that will complement the salad ingredients.

Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad

Cheese tortellini combined with fresh vegetables, mozzarella, and salami in a zesty Italian dressing for a refreshing meal.

Prep Time
20 Minutes
Cook Time
10 Minutes
Total Time
30 Minutes
By: Zaho

Category: Side Dishes

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Italian

Yield: 8 Servings (1 large bowl)

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

→ Base

01 1 20 oz. bag refrigerated cheese tortellini

→ Vegetables & Olives

02 1 cucumber, peeled, sliced and quartered
03 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
04 1 6 oz. can black olives, drained and halved
05 1 orange bell pepper, chopped
06 2 tablespoons chopped pepperoncini

→ Protein & Cheese

07 8 oz. fresh mozzarella balls, quartered
08 8 oz. sliced salami, chopped

→ Dressing

09 1 recipe Italian dressing

→ Optional Toppings

10 Feta cheese
11 Parmesan cheese
12 Fresh parsley

Instructions

Step 01

Prepare Italian dressing according to directions. Refrigerate until ready to use then shake or whisk to recombine before using.

Step 02

Cook tortellini in salted water according to package directions. Rinse with cool water, drain and add to a large serving bowl.

Step 03

Pour half of the dressing over the warm pasta and toss to combine.

Step 04

Add the cucumber, cherry tomatoes, black olives, bell pepper, pepperoncini, mozzarella balls, and salami to the tortellini.

Step 05

If serving within the hour, toss with desired amount of remaining dressing. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to meld and salad to chill. If serving later, gently toss ingredients to combine but do NOT add remaining dressing yet. Cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, toss with desired amount of remaining dressing.

Notes

  1. This salad is excellent the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
  2. For best flavor, allow the warm tortellini to absorb some of the dressing before adding other ingredients.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large serving bowl
  • Colander

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy (cheese tortellini, mozzarella)
  • Contains gluten (pasta)
  • May contain pork (salami)