Description
This Antipasto Tortellini Pasta Salad is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish perfect for summer picnics, meal prep lunches, or quick and easy dinners. Loaded with cheesy tortellini, cured meats, olives, fresh vegetables, and tossed in a zesty Italian dressing, it’s a satisfying and versatile recipe. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, easy dinner idea, or a healthy-ish snack to prep ahead, this pasta salad delivers both bold flavor and convenience. A great addition to your list of dinner ideas, picnic dishes, or easy recipe favorites.
Ingredients
1 pound cheese tortellini, cooked and cooled
1/2 cup sliced salami
1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/3 cup kalamata olives, halved
1/3 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers
1/2 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
3/4 cup Italian dressing (zesty style)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions (about 3–5 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
2. Slice the salami, pepperoni, red onion, and roasted red peppers. Halve the cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, and pepperoncini peppers. Drain mozzarella balls.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled tortellini with all prepared antipasto ingredients.
4. Pour in the Italian dressing and toss to coat evenly. Adjust with more dressing as needed.
5. Cover and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Before serving, toss again. Top with chopped parsley and Parmesan if using. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Notes
Don’t skip rinsing the tortellini with cold water—it keeps the pasta from overcooking and sticking.
Keep some dressing aside to refresh the salad just before serving, especially if made in advance.
Add a splash of lemon juice if you want a brighter, lighter flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling, Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 35mg