Description
This Tortellini Pasta Salad is packed with bold Italian flavors, featuring cheese-filled tortellini, savory pepperoni, mozzarella, Parmesan, olives, and marinated artichokes. Tossed in a tangy balsamic dressing, this easy pasta salad is perfect for potlucks, meal prep, or a quick summer side dish
Ingredients
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1 ½ lbs refrigerated tortellini
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5–7 oz pepperoni slices, chopped
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8 oz mozzarella, chopped into ½-inch pieces
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4 oz Parmesan, chopped into ½-inch pieces
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½ cup green onions, chopped
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1 dry pint cherry tomatoes, halved
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1 can medium black olives
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1 (6-oz) jar marinated artichoke hearts
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½ cup deli-sliced pepperoncini
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¼ cup balsamic vinegar (white or regular)
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⅓ cup + 1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp Italian seasoning
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2 cloves garlic, smashed
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
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Cook the Tortellini:
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Cook tortellini according to package instructions (boil for 2-3 minutes). Drain and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
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Prepare the Salad:
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In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, chopped pepperoni, mozzarella, Parmesan, green onions, cherry tomatoes, black olives, artichoke hearts, and pepperoncini.
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Make the Dressing:
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In a blender, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. (Alternatively, whisk the ingredients together while slowly drizzling in the olive oil for emulsification.)
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Toss and Serve:
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Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
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Serve immediately or refrigerate for a few hours to enhance flavor. Toss again before serving.
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Notes
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This salad can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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For added crunch, try adding some roasted nuts or seeds.
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Adjust the amount of balsamic vinegar or olive oil depending on your taste preference.
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If you don’t like pepperoni, try using salami or another Italian deli meat as a substitute.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of the recipe
- Calories: 410 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 31g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 30mg