Italian Grinder Tortellini Salad Recipe

Introduction

This Italian Grinder Tortellini Salad is a flavorful, hearty dish perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a satisfying lunch. Combining cheesy tortellini with zesty Italian meats and a creamy, tangy dressing, it offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes.

Ingredients

• ¾ cup (174 g) mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• 19 ounces cheese tortellini, cooked and cooled
• ⅓ cup pepperoncini, drained and chopped
• ⅓ cup (33 g) parmesan cheese, grated
• ½ medium red onion, diced
• 1 cup (180 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup (237 g) sliced pepperoni, chopped
• 1 cup (237 g) sliced salami, chopped
• 1 cup (135 g) deli ham, chopped

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, black pepper, oregano, red pepper flakes, and salt until smooth and creamy.
2. Step 2: Add the cooked and cooled tortellini to the dressing. Gently toss to coat the pasta evenly.
3. Step 3: Add the pepperoncini, parmesan cheese, diced red onion, cherry tomatoes, chopped pepperoni, salami, and ham to the bowl.
4. Step 4: Using a large spoon or rubber spatula, gently toss all ingredients together until well combined and the tortellini is evenly coated.
5. Step 5: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to chill and allow the flavors to meld.
6. Step 6: Before serving, give the salad one last gentle stir to refresh the dressing. Serve cold and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter version, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
• Use turkey or chicken deli meats for a different flavor profile.
• Add chopped fresh basil or parsley for extra freshness.
• If you prefer more heat, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
• Make sure to cook tortellini al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when tossed in dressing.

Storage

Store the tortellini salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a gentle stir before serving. It can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but avoid leaving it out for extended periods to keep it fresh.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, this salad benefits from resting in the fridge for at least an hour to let the flavors blend. It can be made a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.

What can I substitute for pepperoncini if I don’t have any?

You can use sliced banana peppers or mild pickled jalapeños as alternatives to pepperoncini. They add a similar tangy and slightly spicy flavor.

Italian Grinder Tortellini Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 744 reviews

This Italian Grinder Tortellini Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish combining tender cheese tortellini with a zesty homemade dressing, pepperoncini, Parmesan, fresh vegetables, and a variety of Italian deli meats. Perfectly chilled, it’s an easy and hearty salad ideal for lunch, potlucks, or casual gatherings.

• Author: Lena
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dressing

• ¾ cup (174 g) mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt

Salad

• 19 ounces cheese tortellini, cooked and cooled
• ⅓ cup pepperoncini, drained and chopped
• ⅓ cup (33 g) Parmesan cheese, grated
• ½ medium red onion, diced
• 1 cup (180 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup (237 g) sliced pepperoni, chopped
• 1 cup (237 g) sliced salami, chopped
• 1 cup (135 g) deli ham, chopped

Instructions

1. Whisk Dressing Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, black pepper, oregano, red pepper flakes, and kosher salt. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, forming the dressing base.
2. Add Cooked Tortellini to Dressing: Ensure the cheese tortellini has been cooked according to package instructions and cooled. Add the tortellini to the bowl with the dressing and gently toss to evenly coat all pieces with the creamy mixture.
3. Incorporate Vegetables and Meats: Add chopped pepperoncini, grated Parmesan cheese, diced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, and the chopped slices of pepperoni, salami, and deli ham to the bowl.
4. Toss All Ingredients Together: Using a large spoon or rubber spatula, gently mix all ingredients until the tortellini and other components are uniformly coated and well combined.
5. Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour. This chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Serve Cold: Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to refresh the dressing and flavor distribution. Serve chilled for the best taste and texture.

Notes

• For best results, cook the tortellini just until al dente and rinse under cold water to cool and stop further cooking.
• Adjust the red pepper flakes if you prefer less heat.
• You can substitute deli ham with turkey or chicken if preferred.
• This salad improves in flavor if made a few hours ahead or the day before serving.
• Consume within 2-3 days when stored properly in the refrigerator.

Keywords: Italian salad, tortellini salad, Italian deli meat salad, cold pasta salad, make-ahead lunch