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Tortellini Pasta Salad Recipe

Tortellini Pasta Salad

A refreshing and satisfying pasta salad that's perfect for picnics or potlucks, loaded with fresh vegetables and a tangy homemade dressing.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 20 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cucumber peeled and chopped
  • 1/2 red onion thinly sliced
  • 1 cup pitted kalamata olives chopped
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls
  • 1/2 cup chopped salami or pepperoni
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups baby spinach or arugula
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp honey
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Bowl
  • Jar with lid

Method
 

  1. Cook the tortellini in a large pot of salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water. Transfer to a large bowl.
  2. While the tortellini cooks, make the dressing. In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the olive oil, vinegar, mustard, honey, garlic, oregano, salt and pepper. Shake well until emulsified.
  3. Pour half of the dressing over the warm tortellini and toss gently to coat. Let cool for 10 minutes.
  4. Add the tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, mozzarella, salami, Parmesan, spinach, and basil to the bowl with the tortellini. Pour the remaining dressing over the top and toss gently to combine all the ingredients.
  5. Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld. Toss again and taste for seasoning before serving. Add more salt, pepper, or vinegar if needed.
  6. Garnish with additional fresh basil and Parmesan if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!

Notes

This versatile pasta salad can be customized with your favorite ingredients or whatever you have on hand. It can be served as a side dish or a main course.