Italian Deli Tortellini Pasta Salad Recipe

This easy Italian tortellini pasta salad recipe calls for simple ingredients and can be tossed together in less than 15 minutes! A fun and delicious twist on cold pasta salad, this easy recipe is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it!

Pasta salad is, well, pasta salad. It might not be as much of a staple as potato salad, but let’s just say I’ve been to very few, if any, summer gatherings that didn’t include pasta salad. 

Though, may I just say both potato salad and pasta salad are great sides regardless of what time of year it is. And they go with pretty much everything. Another great reason to love pasta is that there are a million different ways to make it!

I’m not sure if they actually eat cold pasta salad in Italy, or if they would ever approve of me calling this Italian pasta salad, but yeah, it is what it is. 

This simple pasta salad recipe is super easy to make and unique, with a delicious combination of flavors. Featuring classic Italian deli favorites such as provolone cheese and salami, plus cheese tortellini as the pasta of choice, cause why not? 

This easy tortellini salad is sure to steal the show everywhere it goes and be a hit with the whole family. It’s perfect for summer BBQs, the 4th of July, potlucks, or any family gathering!

So be sure to give this easy side a try, and don’t be afraid to add your own twist too!

How To Make Tortellini Pasta Salad

Ingredients

• cheese tortellini 
• mayo, be sure to use real mayo, not Miracle Whip!
• olive oil, I like to use extra virgin olive oil
• red wine vinegar
• giardiniera, drained and finely chopped. Mild, medium, or hot all work for this recipe; use whatever suits your taste!
• provolone cheese, I used strips, but you can also use shredded or cubed cheese
• salami, cut into slices, then half-moons, or diced
• fresh parsley, finely chopped
• fresh basil, finely chopped
• freshly ground black pepper, to taste. 

Additional Mix-in Ideas

• cherry tomatoes, halved
• bell peppers, diced. I like red peppers best!
• fresh mozzarella balls. You could also use a fresh mozzarella log, diced. 
• red onion
• a mix of your favorite fresh veggies!
• Shredded Parmesan cheese
• Additional fresh herbs, or use a blend to create a fresh Italian seasoning!

Directions

Bring a large pot of water to a boil over medium heat, add the tortellini, and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.  Drain and rinse under cold water to keep from sticking, then set aside until ready to use.

In a small bowl, combine the mayo, olive oil, and red wine vinegar, and mix well. Set aside until ready to use. 

In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, chopped giardiniera, provolone cheese, salami, and finely chopped parsley and basil. Toss to combine.

Then add your prepared dressing, plus a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper, and toss until everything is well coated in the dressing. Taste and season with additional black pepper as needed. 

Italian tortellini pasta salad can be served immediately, but I would recommend chilling for 1-2 hours before serving for the best results. 

Enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Any leftover pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container or covered tightly with plastic wrap in the fridge for up to 3 days. 

Feel free to use a pound of your favorite short cut pasta in place of the tortellini in this recipe if you like. 

Personally, I like all my salads(pasta or not) to be pretty loaded, and needless to say, this recipe has quite a lot of ”extras”- feel free to cut down the recommended amount of cheese, salami, and giardiniera in this recipe if you like. Or make additional tortellini to add. 

Be Sure To Check Out These Easy Sides Too!

Quick and Easy Avocado Salad

Loaded Potato Salad Recipe

Greek Potato Salad (no mayo recipe!)

Spring Orzo Pasta Salad (with green goddess dressing)

Chopped Greek Salad Recipe