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Tortellini Pasta Salad

A colorful and vibrant tortellini salad that combines cheesy tortellini, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing. Perfect for potlucks and picnics!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Vegetables
  • 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
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

Method
 

Preparation
  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.

Notes

This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to take this salad to the next level, let it marinate in the fridge overnight for even tastier flavors. Store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.