Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad with Salami and Mozzarella
February 22nd, 2026 12:43 PM Theresa Categories: Nutrition
Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad with Salami and Mozzarella stands out as an exceptional blend of bold tastes, making it the perfect choice for casual gatherings, special events, or even an everyday meal. This dish combines the richness of cheese tortellini, the savory kick of salami, and the creaminess of mozzarella, all brought together by a zesty Italian vinaigrette.
Prep & Cook Time
☐ Prep: 15 minutes
☐ Cook: 10 minutes
☐ Total Time: 25 minutes
☐ Serves: 6–8
Ingredients
☐ 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
☐ 6 oz Genoa salami, chopped
☐ 8 oz mozzarella balls (or cubed mozzarella)
☐ 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
☐ ½ cup pepperoncini, sliced
☐ ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
☐ ¼ cup black olives, sliced
☐ ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
☐ ½ cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
☐ Salt and pepper, to taste
Shopping List
☐ Cheese tortellini
☐ Genoa salami
☐ Mozzarella balls or block
☐ Cherry tomatoes
☐ Pepperoncini
☐ Red onion
☐ Black olives
☐ Fresh basil
☐ Italian dressing
☐ Salt and pepper
Prep List
☐ Cook tortellini according to package directions; drain and cool
☐ Chop salami and mozzarella
☐ Halve cherry tomatoes
☐ Slice pepperoncini, red onion, and olives
☐ Chop fresh basil
☐ Measure Italian dressing
Instructions
☐ Cook tortellini until tender; drain and rinse under cold water
☐ Combine tortellini, salami, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, pepperoncini, red onion, olives, and basil in a large bowl
☐ Pour Italian dressing over the mixture
☐ Toss gently to coat evenly
☐ Season with salt and pepper to taste
☐ Refrigerate at least 30 minutes before serving for flavors to meld
☐ Serve chilled or at room temperature
Tips & Variations
☐ Substitute cooked chicken or ham for salami for a different protein
☐ Add roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts for extra flavor
☐ Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier texture
☐ Dressing can be homemade with olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and Italian herbs
☐ Ideal for picnics or potlucks since it holds up well
Nutrition (Approximate, per serving)
☐ Calories: 300–350 (depends on tortellini and dressing)
☐ Protein: Moderate from cheese and salami
☐ Contains dairy and gluten
☐ Low in added sugars
Meal Prep & Storage
☐ Can be made 1 day ahead; store in an airtight container in the refrigerator
☐ Keeps well up to 3 days
☐ Do not freeze (mozzarella and dressing texture may change)
☐ No reheating needed; serve chilled or at room temperature
☐ Toss again before serving to redistribute dressing and flavors
Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad with Salami and Mozzarella