Name: Italian Grinder Tortellini Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: ¾ cup (174 g) mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes; ¼ teaspoon kosher salt; 19 ounces cheese tortellini (cooked according to package instructions, then cooled); ⅓ cup pepperoncini (drained and chopped); ⅓ cup (33 g) parmesan cheese (grated); ½ medium red onion (diced); 1 cup (180 g) cherry tomatoes (halved); 1 cup (237 g) sliced pepperoni (chopped); 1 cup (237 g) sliced salami (chopped); 1 cup (135 g) deli ham (chopped)

Introduction

This Italian Grinder Tortellini Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for a quick lunch or a party side. Combining tender cheese tortellini with savory deli meats and a zesty, creamy dressing, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Ready in just 20 minutes and served chilled, it’s an easy way to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

A close-up of a dish on a white plate filled with creamy tortellini pasta mixed with layers of bright red cherry tomato halves, pale yellow and pink slices of ham and salami, small pieces of light green celery, and bits of purple onion, all coated in a light creamy sauce with sprinkled black pepper on top. A silver fork rests on the right edge of the plate, and the background is a white marbled texture with a white cloth napkin partially visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

¾ cup (174 g) mayonnaise

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

1 teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon dried oregano

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes

¼ teaspoon kosher salt

19 ounces cheese tortellini, cooked and cooled

⅓ cup pepperoncini, drained and chopped

⅓ cup (33 g) parmesan cheese, grated

½ medium red onion, diced

1 cup (180 g) cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup (237 g) sliced pepperoni, chopped

1 cup (237 g) sliced salami, chopped

1 cup (135 g) deli ham, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, black pepper, oregano, red pepper flakes, and kosher salt in a large mixing bowl until smooth and creamy.

Step 2: Add the cooked and cooled cheese tortellini to the dressing and gently toss to coat all the pasta evenly.

Step 3: Add pepperoncini, parmesan cheese, diced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped pepperoni, salami, and deli ham to the bowl.

Step 4: Using a large spoon or rubber spatula, gently toss everything together until well combined and coated with the dressing.

Step 5: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to chill and allow the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Before serving, give the salad another gentle stir to refresh the dressing and serve cold.

Tips & Variations

For a lighter version, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or use a low-fat mayo.

Add diced cucumbers or bell peppers for extra crunch and freshness.

If you prefer a spicier salad, increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce to the dressing.

Use fresh basil or parsley to brighten the flavors just before serving.

Storage

Store the tortellini salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors improve after chilling, but the pasta may absorb some dressing over time, so you might want to add a little extra dressing or vinegar when serving leftovers. Serve cold or at room temperature for best taste.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad is ideal for making ahead. Prepare it and chill for at least an hour to let the flavors meld. It can be stored for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of tortellini?

Absolutely. While cheese tortellini adds a special touch, you can substitute with any small pasta shape like rotini, farfalle, or penne. Just ensure the pasta is cooked, cooled, and drained before mixing.