Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tuscan Tortellini Salad is a hearty and flavorful dish that blends Italian pasta with Mediterranean ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and salami. Perfect as a main or side dish, it’s ideal for picnics, potlucks, or a refreshing lunch. The cheesy tortellini pairs beautifully with the tangy dressing and bold flavors for a colorful and satisfying salad.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

cheese tortellinisalami (sliced or chopped)cherry tomatoeskalamata olivessun-dried tomatoesbaby spinachred onionparmesan cheesebasil (fresh)Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)

directions

Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.

In a large bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, salami, cherry tomatoes (halved), olives (sliced), sun-dried tomatoes (chopped), baby spinach, and thinly sliced red onion.

Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil for extra flavor.

Pour Italian dressing over the salad and toss to coat everything evenly.

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Give it a quick toss before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6-8 people.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 10 minutesChilling time: 30 minutesTotal time: 55 minutes

Variations

Use grilled chicken or roasted vegetables instead of salami for a different protein source.

Add artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers for more Mediterranean flair.

Try a balsamic vinaigrette instead of Italian dressing for a deeper flavor profile.

Make it spicy with a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or spicy salami.

Use tricolor tortellini for a more vibrant presentation.

storage/reheating

Store Tuscan Tortellini Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Best served cold or at room temperature—no reheating needed.

If salad seems dry after storage, add a splash of dressing and toss to refresh.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, it actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours as the flavors meld together.

What type of tortellini should I use?

Cheese tortellini works best, but you can also use spinach or meat-filled varieties.

Can I use bottled dressing?

Yes, a quality store-bought Italian dressing is fine, or you can make your own.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Only if you use gluten-free tortellini and confirm other ingredients are GF-friendly.

Can I serve this warm?

It’s intended to be a cold salad, but you can serve it slightly warm if preferred.

Do I have to use spinach?

No, you can substitute with arugula, mixed greens, or leave it out entirely.

How long can it sit out at a picnic?

Up to 2 hours safely, but keep it chilled in a cooler if possible.

Can I freeze this salad?

Freezing is not recommended due to the texture changes in pasta and greens.

Is it suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, if you omit the salami or use a plant-based alternative.

How can I make it dairy-free?

Use dairy-free tortellini and omit the Parmesan or replace it with a vegan option.

Conclusion

Tuscan Tortellini Salad is a vibrant and delicious dish that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch, a summer picnic, or a holiday spread, it brings Italian charm and Mediterranean brightness to your table. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of Tuscany in every bite.