If you’re in search of a quick and satisfying dish, this easy and delicious Tortellini Pasta Salad recipe is a must-try. It’s perfect for a light lunch or a side dish, bringing together fresh ingredients in a delightful medley of flavors. With its simple preparation, you’ll have a delightful meal ready in no time.
Steps
- Begin by preparing the Italian dressing according to your recipe or using a premade version. Chill it in the refrigerator until needed, shaking or whisking before use to ensure it’s well combined.
- Cook the tortellini in salted water as per the package instructions. Once cooked, rinse with cold water to stop further cooking, then drain and transfer to a large serving bowl.
- Pour half of the prepared dressing over the warm tortellini and toss to combine. This helps the pasta absorb flavors and prevents it from sticking.
- Add the remaining salad ingredients: chopped cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, drained and halved olives, chopped orange bell pepper, chopped pepperoncini, quartered mozzarella balls, and chopped salami to the tortellini.
- If serving immediately, toss the salad with the desired amount of remaining dressing. Although it can be served right away, it’s best to refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
- For later serving, gently mix the ingredients without adding more dressing. Cover and refrigerate, and when ready to serve, toss with the desired amount of remaining dressing, as the salad tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients
- 1 recipe of Italian Dressing (approximately ¾-1 cup if using premade)
- 1 (20 oz.) bag of refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cucumber, peeled, sliced, and quartered
- 1 pint of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 (6 oz.) can of black olives, drained and halved
- 1 orange bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tablespoons of chopped pepperoncini
- 8 oz. fresh mozzarella balls, quartered
- 8 oz. sliced salami, chopped
- Feta cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Parsley
- Zucchini
- Pepperoni
- Italian sausage
- Crispy thick-cut bacon
- Shrimp
- Grilled or shredded chicken
FAQ
- Can you eat tortellini cold?
- Absolutely! Cold tortellini is a delightful way to enjoy this pasta. It’s refreshing, creamy, and soft, providing a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Should tortellini be rinsed after cooking?
- Yes, rinsing tortellini under cold water after cooking is advised. This helps stop the cooking process immediately, preventing the pasta from becoming too soft and falling apart.
- What dressing pairs best with pasta salad?
- The ideal dressing for pasta salad is a Homemade Italian Dressing. It combines olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried herbs, spices, and Parmesan cheese, enhancing the overall flavor of the salad.
- How long can pasta salad be stored in the refrigerator?
- You can keep pasta salad covered in the fridge for 2-3 days. Many find that the flavors improve a day or two after preparation.
- Can this Tortellini Salad be prepared ahead of time?
- Yes, this salad tastes fantastic the next day. Prepare it with half the dressing, refrigerate, and add the remaining dressing before serving for optimal flavor.
- How do you prevent tortellini from sticking together after cooking?
- To prevent sticking, toss the cooked tortellini with half of the dressing while it is still slightly warm. This not only prevents clumping but also allows the pasta to absorb more flavor.
Tips
- Cook Tortellini Al Dente: Ensure your tortellini is cooked to al dente to maintain its texture in the salad. Overcooked tortellini can become mushy and fall apart when mixed.
- Rinse to Stop Cooking: After cooking the tortellini, rinse it under cold water to stop it from cooking further. This helps maintain the ideal texture for the salad.
- Flavor Infusion Tip: Toss the freshly cooked tortellini with half of the dressing while it’s still warm. This allows the pasta to absorb more flavor and prevents it from sticking together.
- Chill Before Serving: For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This chilling time helps the flavors meld together, enhancing the overall taste.
Equipment
- Large serving bowl – for mixing and serving the salad.
- Whisk or salad dressing shaker – for preparing and mixing the homemade Italian dressing.
- Pasta strainer or colander – for draining the tortellini after cooking.
