Description
This Antipasto Tortellini Salad is a colorful and delicious dish, ideal for gatherings or as a refreshing side. It features cheese tortellini, fresh vegetables, and savory meats, all tossed in a zesty dressing that enhances the flavors of the ingredients. Perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup green olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup salami, diced
- 1/2 cup pepperoni, diced
- 1/2 cup mozzarella balls, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions (3-5 minutes) until they float and are tender.
- Drain the tortellini and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside in a large mixing bowl to cool completely.
- Slice cherry tomatoes in half.
- Dice cucumber into small pieces.
- Slice black and green olives.
- Dice salami and pepperoni into small cubes.
- Halve mozzarella balls.
- Thinly slice red onion (soak in cold water if desired to mellow flavor).
- Chop fresh basil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Italian seasoning.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Optionally, add a teaspoon of honey or a pinch of sugar for sweetness.
- In the bowl with cooled tortellini, add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, salami, pepperoni, mozzarella, red onion, and basil.
- Drizzle with dressing (start with half) and gently toss to combine without breaking the tortellini.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Toss the salad again before serving. If it appears dry, add more olive oil or vinegar.
- Serve in a large bowl or individual dishes, garnished with additional fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- This salad is versatile; feel free to add or substitute your favorite ingredients.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the salami and pepperoni and add more vegetables or chickpeas for protein.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes