Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just cook according to package directions first - frozen tortellini needs a couple extra minutes. The texture might be slightly firmer, but it still makes a fantastic Italian cold salad.

How long does this tortellini pasta salad last in the fridge?

This potluck favorite stays delicious for 3-4 days in an airtight container. The tortellini soaks up more dressing over time - I actually think day two tastes best! Just give it a quick stir before serving.

Can I make this vegetarian?

You bet! Skip the salami and add extra veggies like roasted bell peppers or artichoke hearts. Sometimes I throw in cannellini beans for protein - makes it heartier while keeping it meat-free.

What if I don\'t have Italian dressing?

No worries! Whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tbsp red wine vinegar, 1 tsp each dried oregano and garlic powder, plus salt and pepper. It\'s my quick homemade version that works perfectly.

Can I add other cheeses?

Oh honey, cheese is always a yes in my book! Crumbled feta or fresh mozzarella pearls are fabulous additions to this cheesy picnic dish. Just add them right before serving so they keep their shape.

30-Minute Tortellini Pasta Salad That Steals the Show

Name: Tortellini Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb cheese-filled tortellini; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup sliced black olives; 1/2 cup diced salami; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/3 cup Italian dressing; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Tortellini Pasta Salad

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A refreshing Italian-inspired cold salad featuring cheese-filled tortellini, crisp veggies, savory salami, and a zesty dressing. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or holiday spreads.

Author: Sophia Collins
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins (plus chilling)
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Salad
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb cheese-filled tortellini
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup sliced black olives
1/2 cup diced salami
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup Italian dressing
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
In a large bowl, combine tortellini, cherry tomatoes, black olives, salami, red onion, and basil.
In a small bowl, whisk together Italian dressing, lemon juice, and oregano.
Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.

Notes

Make ahead for easier prep—store in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Add extra veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers for crunch.
Swap salami for grilled chicken for a lighter option.
Follow Sophia on Pinterest for more recipe ideas.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 320
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 580mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 14g
Cholesterol: 45mg

Find it online: https://kitchenuser.net/tortellini-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-italian/