This Salami Mozzarella Tortellini Pasta Salad is a celebration of fresh, robust Italian flavors that come together beautifully in every bite. The tender tortellini provides a soft, comforting base, perfectly complemented by the salty richness of the salami and the creamy texture of fresh mozzarella. Juicy cherry tomatoes and briny olives add bursts of color and flavor, while fragrant basil leaves bring a refreshing herbal note that lifts the whole dish. Ideal for warm-weather meals or casual gatherings, this salad is as visually appealing as it is delicious. The glossy dressing of olive oil and balsamic vinegar ties all the ingredients together, creating a harmonious balance between tangy, savory, and fresh. Whether served chilled or at room temperature, it makes a fantastic, effortless dish to impress friends and family alike.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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250g cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
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100g sliced salami, cut into strips
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125g fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1/2 cup black olives, sliced
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1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
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3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
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1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
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1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Directions:
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Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool them.
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
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Add the cooled tortellini, salami strips, mozzarella halves, cherry tomatoes, black olives, and torn basil leaves to the bowl.
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Toss gently until everything is evenly coated with the dressing. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
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Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 420 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
A Taste of Italy in Every Bite
Italian cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and simple yet satisfying combinations. Among the many treasures of Italian cooking, pasta salads hold a special place, offering a versatile and delicious option for meals that can be served warm or cold. This Salami Mozzarella Tortellini Pasta Salad beautifully combines classic Italian flavors in a way that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Using tortellini—small ring-shaped pasta filled with cheese—adds a luxurious and comforting texture that elevates this salad beyond your average pasta dish.
The combination of salami and mozzarella is quintessentially Italian, drawing on the country’s love for cured meats and fresh cheeses. When paired with fresh basil, juicy cherry tomatoes, and briny olives, it creates a harmony of flavors that balance richness, freshness, and a slight tang. Drizzled with a simple olive oil and balsamic dressing, the salad delivers a satisfying and wholesome meal with minimal effort.
Why Tortellini? The Star of This Salad
Tortellini is a type of filled pasta traditionally stuffed with a blend of cheese, meat, or herbs. Its small, delicate shape makes it perfect for salads because it holds onto dressings well and provides a bite-sized burst of flavor. Unlike regular pasta shapes, tortellini adds an extra layer of indulgence due to its filling, making this salad feel like a gourmet experience without the fuss.
Using fresh or refrigerated tortellini ensures a tender, slightly chewy texture that contrasts nicely with the crispness of fresh vegetables and the creaminess of mozzarella. It’s also versatile—available in various fillings, which means you can easily customize the recipe by choosing cheese, spinach, or even meat-filled tortellini based on your preference.
Salami and Mozzarella: A Perfect Pair
Salami, with its rich, cured flavor and slight spice, brings a savory depth to the salad. This cured meat is packed with umami, which is why it complements the mild, milky mozzarella so well. Mozzarella adds a creamy, soft texture and coolness that balances the saltiness of the salami. Together, they create a satisfying protein duo that makes this salad filling and nutritionally balanced.
Using fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) instead of shredded cheese means every bite offers a delightful texture contrast and a fresh dairy flavor that melts gently on the palate. This pairing is a nod to traditional Italian antipasti platters but reimagined into a light pasta salad.
Fresh Ingredients for Bright Flavors
Cherry tomatoes, black olives, and fresh basil aren’t just colorful additions—they are essential in bringing brightness and freshness to the dish. Tomatoes add a subtle sweetness and acidity that cuts through the richness of the salami and cheese. Olives provide a slightly salty, briny counterpoint that elevates the overall complexity of the salad.
Fresh basil leaves introduce a fragrant herbal note that ties everything together and gives the salad its unmistakable Italian aroma. These ingredients also make the salad look vibrant and inviting, ideal for sharing at gatherings or packing for a picnic.
Simple Dressing, Maximum Impact
The dressing is a straightforward mix of extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. This combination is classic yet effective, providing a tangy and slightly sharp flavor that enhances every ingredient without overpowering them.
Olive oil is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, making it a great base for the dressing. Balsamic vinegar adds sweetness and acidity, which brightens the dish and balances the fats from the cheese and salami. Dijon mustard adds a subtle sharpness and emulsifies the dressing, ensuring it coats the pasta and veggies evenly.
Nutritional Benefits
This salad offers a balanced mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, making it a satisfying meal on its own or a hearty side dish. The tortellini provides energy-boosting carbs, while the salami and mozzarella supply high-quality protein and fats necessary for muscle repair and brain function.
The fresh vegetables and basil add important vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to overall health and supporting the immune system. Additionally, olive oil is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and cardiovascular benefits.
By using fresh and wholesome ingredients, this pasta salad stands out as a nourishing option that doesn’t compromise on flavor or indulgence.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a dish to bring to a potluck, or a refreshing picnic meal, this Salami Mozzarella Tortellini Pasta Salad fits the bill perfectly. It requires minimal cooking—just boil the tortellini—and can be made ahead of time, which makes it ideal for busy lifestyles.
It’s also versatile: you can easily swap ingredients to suit dietary preferences or what you have on hand. For example, substitute salami for turkey or vegetarian deli slices, or swap mozzarella for vegan cheese alternatives. Adding roasted vegetables or pine nuts can further customize the dish.
The salad holds up well when refrigerated, and the flavors deepen over time, making leftovers just as delicious as freshly made servings.
How to Serve and Pair This Salad
This salad can be served as a main dish for lunch or dinner or as a side to grilled meats, fish, or a fresh green salad. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or garlic focaccia to soak up the dressing. For drinks, a light Italian white wine like Pinot Grigio or a sparkling Prosecco complements the freshness of the salad beautifully.
Tips for Success
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Use fresh tortellini if possible for the best texture. If using dried, cook carefully to avoid overcooking.
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Chill the salad before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
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Tear the basil leaves by hand to release their essential oils and avoid bruising.
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Adjust the amount of dressing to your preference, but don’t skip it—it’s the key to tying the salad together.
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If preparing ahead, keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving for a fresher taste.
Conclusion
This Salami Mozzarella Tortellini Pasta Salad is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings a slice of Italian tradition to your table. Its balance of textures, flavors, and nutritional value makes it a reliable recipe that can please a wide range of palates. Perfect for family dinners, casual lunches, or festive occasions, it encapsulates the Italian philosophy of using quality ingredients to create simple, yet deeply satisfying dishes. Try this recipe and discover why pasta salads like this one remain timeless classics, loved across generations and borders.
