Pin it
On those sweltering summer afternoons when turning on the stove feels impossible but you still want something tasty for dinner, this 5 Minute Italian Salami Tortellini Salad comes to the rescue. I found this gem during a really hot summer when I needed something fast to take to a friend's cookout. Now everyone asks for it whenever we get together. The mix of soft tortellini, flavorful salami and oil-soaked mozzarella creates this unforgettable taste that makes people come back for more.
Why This Salad Stands Out
What makes this salad so wonderful is how quick yet stunning it turns out. Just six ingredients and five minutes of your time. I love seeing guests try it for the first time and watching their reaction when they taste the fresh basil with the juicy mozzarella. It's become my trusted go-to for gatherings and works perfectly alongside whatever my husband's cooking on his smoker.
Grab These Items
- Tortellini: Always go for fresh ones from the cooler section. They have that wonderful bite that you just can't get from the dried kind.
- Mozzarella: The small marinated balls are key. Their flavor-packed oil becomes your dressing.
- Salami: Cut yours into small chunks so every mouthful gets that salty kick.
- Grape Tomatoes: These tiny sweet bites add just the right touch of freshness.
- Basil: Only use fresh leaves. I usually buy extra because I can't help adding more.
- Salt: A small sprinkle to bring all the flavors together.
Let's Put It Together
- Cook Your Pasta Right
- Get water really salty and boiling hard. Toss in the tortellini and watch as they bob up when done. Drain them well and put them in a large bowl to cool down.
- Mix Everything Up
- Here's the fun part. Add the marinated mozzarella with all the tasty oil it comes in. Don't drain it off. Mix in your chopped salami, halved tomatoes, and tear up fresh basil. Making this fills my kitchen with the most amazing Italian scent.
- Ready To Eat
- Stir everything gently and see how the colors blend into something beautiful. You can eat it straight away or stick it in the fridge until you're ready.
Switch Things Around
I often change ingredients based on what I've got at home. Recently I switched salami for pepperoni and my children couldn't get enough. Regular mozzarella works great if you can't get the marinated type. I've added diced peppers for some crunch and sometimes throw in a bit of spinach too. You can try so many variations and that's what makes it so enjoyable.
Keeping It Fresh
This dish stays good in the fridge for 4 to 5 days but at my house it's usually gone way before then. I keep it in my trusty glass container that seals well. If you're planning meals ahead you can freeze just the cooked tortellini on its own but remember to add the fresh stuff later when you're ready to eat. Everything tastes best when freshly mixed.
Great Pairings
This salad goes amazingly with anything cooked outdoors. It shows up regularly next to my husband's knockout smoked chicken and his treasured brisket. When it's too hot to cook much we make this the main dish with some toasted garlic bread on the side. The kids enjoy it with homemade lemonade while grown-ups prefer it with a cool glass of Pinot Grigio.
Try These Pasta Dishes Too
This tortellini creation got me hooked on cold pasta meals. Now I've got tons of different versions. My take with feta and olives is always the first empty bowl at gatherings. Another one with corn and black beans has a nice spicy kick everyone enjoys. But this Italian mix with its clean, bright flavors will always be my number one go-to dish.
Tips For Success
After making this hundreds of times, I've learned a few tricks. Don't be shy with pasta water salt as it really boosts flavor. Make sure your pasta cools all the way before adding anything else or you'll end up with sad wilted basil. Always save the flavored oil from the cheese as it makes the whole dish sing. Try to cut everything roughly the same size so you taste everything in each fork.
Pin it
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I prepare this early?
- Absolutely, this salad keeps nicely in the fridge for 3-4 days. The mozzarella oil keeps it moist and yummy.
- → What tortellini should I pick?
- Go with any cheese-stuffed tortellini, fresh for faster cooking or dried if that's what you have.
- → Can I include other veggies?
- Totally, toss in cucumbers, peppers, or even olives. Just chop them small for easy bites.
- → Why is it coming out dry?
- Don't forget to use the oil from the mozzarella or drizzle some olive oil for extra moisture.
- → Is there a meat substitute?
- You can swap salami for ham, pepperoni, or prosciutto. Skipping the meat also works for a veggie version.