Description
Turn this classic tortellini salad into a hearty grinder-style upgrade loaded with salami, pepperoni, and ham. Tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing with crisp veggies and fresh herbs, it delivers bold deli flavor in every bite—perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or an easy, satisfying lunch or dinner option.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup diced English cucumber
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls, drained
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 4 ounces salami, sliced into strips
- 4 ounces pepperoni, halved
- 4 ounces deli ham (or proscuitto), chopped
- 1/4 cup banana peppers, sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded romaine lettuce
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Pesto drizzle for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the tortellini: according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
- Prep the Vegetables: While the tortellini cools, chop the tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and slice the banana peppers. Prepare the meats by cutting salami, pepperoni, and ham into bite-sized pieces.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine tortellini, chopped vegetables, olives, mozzarella pearls, meats, basil, and parsley.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to evenly coat all ingredients.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30–60 minutes to let the flavors develop.
- Just before serving, fold in shredded romaine lettuce, then top with Parmesan and a drizzle of pesto if desired. Serve chilled.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Appetizer, Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 35
- Carbohydrates: 40
- Protein: 24