Zesty Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad for a Fresh Twist

A vibrant and delicious Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad, perfect for gatherings with fresh ingredients and zesty dressing.

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Course: Salads

Cuisine: Italian

Keyword: easy recipes, fresh ingredients, Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad, pasta salad, potluck salads, salad recipes

Prep Time: 20

Cook Time: 7

Refrigeration Time: 1

Total Time: 1 27

Servings: servings

Calories: 320kcal

20 ounces cheese tortellini this hearty base adds a delightful chewiness
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved their sweet juiciness contributes a refreshing burst
1 cup sliced cucumbers provide a satisfying crunch and balance the dish
1 cup black olives, sliced add a briny kick, enhancing the overall taste
1 cup mozzarella balls or cubed mozzarella cheese creamy and mild, brings richness to the salad
½ cup sliced red onion adds a sharp flavor; soak in water to mellow
1 cup Italian salami, diced gives a savory depth
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese nutty, salty notes elevate this dish
½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped fragrant and flavorful, enhances the Italian essence
½ cup Italian dressing ties everything together with zesty goodness
salt and pepper to taste essential for balancing flavors

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, about 5-7 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside to cool.
In a large salad bowl, combine the cooled tortellini with halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, sliced black olives, mozzarella cheese, sliced red onion, and diced Italian salami. Gently mix together.
Drizzle Italian dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss everything together to ensure even coating.
Sprinkle in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil leaves. Toss lightly again.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to meld flavors.
Before serving, give the salad a final toss. Add a splash of dressing if needed.
Serve chilled.

Best enjoyed chilled. Toss before serving and add more dressing if needed. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.