Description
A vibrant and flavorful Antipasto Tortellini Pasta Salad combining tender cheese tortellini with savory Genoa salami, pepperoni, fresh mozzarella, and a tangy red wine vinaigrette dressing. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick lunch, picnic, or potluck and can be served warm or cold.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 1 (19-ounce or 20-ounce) package Cheese Tortellini, cooked according to package instructions (or substitute 1 lb. bowtie pasta)
Meats and Cheese
- 4 ounces Genoa Salami, sliced and rolled
- 4 ounces Pepperoni, sliced and rolled
- 8 ounces Fresh Mozzarella Cheese, cut into cubes
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (optional)
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1/4 Red Onion, thinly sliced
- 3/4 cup Roasted Red Peppers, sliced (from jar)
- 6 Fresh Basil Leaves, sliced into ribbons
Dressing
- 1/2 cup Olive Oil
- 1/4 cup Red Wine Vinegar
- 2 Garlic Cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons Salt
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Heat water in a large pot over high heat until boiling. Generously salt the water, then cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions. Alternatively, you can use 1 lb. of bowtie pasta as a substitute. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the dressing: In a jar or small bowl, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Shake or whisk well until the dressing is fully emulsified.
- Prepare the meats: Slice the Genoa salami and pepperoni into long slices, then roll each slice tightly into a circular shape to create a neat presentation.
- Assemble the salad: Place the cooked tortellini in a large mixing bowl and toss with the red wine vinaigrette dressing to coat evenly. Top the pasta with the rolled salami, pepperoni, fresh mozzarella cubes, thinly sliced red onions, roasted red peppers, fresh basil ribbons, and optional grated parmesan cheese. Gently toss again if desired and season to taste.
- Serve: This antipasto pasta salad can be served warm immediately or chilled in the refrigerator and served cold, making it versatile for any occasion.
Notes
- You can substitute bowtie pasta if tortellini is unavailable.
- For added freshness, chill the salad for an hour before serving.
- Adjust salt and pepper to your taste preference.
- This salad pairs well with crusty bread or a light green salad.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days.
