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Creamy Salami Mozzarella Tortellini Pasta Salad

creamy salami mozzarella tortellini pasta salad - featured image
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A quick and easy creamy pasta salad combining tender cheese tortellini, smoky salami, fresh mozzarella, and a zesty dressing, perfect for summer parties and potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 9 ounces (255 grams) cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
  • 4 ounces (115 grams) salami, sliced into bite-sized pieces
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) fresh mozzarella balls, drained
  • 1 cup (150 grams) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 9 ounces (255 grams) of cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, about 3-5 minutes for fresh tortellini, until tender but still firm (al dente). Drain well in a colander and rinse lightly with cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta. Let drain fully for about 5 minutes.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup (120 ml) mayonnaise, 1/4 cup (60 ml) sour cream, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice. Add salt and pepper to taste. For a silkier finish, slowly whisk in 1 tablespoon olive oil. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  3. While the pasta cools, slice 4 ounces (115 grams) salami into bite-sized pieces, halve 1 cup (150 grams) cherry tomatoes, finely dice 1/4 cup red onion, and roughly chop 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves. Drain 8 ounces (225 grams) fresh mozzarella balls thoroughly.
  4. Transfer the cooked tortellini into a large mixing bowl. Add the salami, mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and basil. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss with a spatula or large spoon until everything is evenly coated, being careful not to break the tortellini.
  5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Give the salad a final gentle toss before plating and garnish with fresh basil or cracked black pepper.

Notes

Do not overcook the tortellini to avoid mushy texture. Rinse pasta with cold water after cooking to stop cooking and prevent clumping. Drain mozzarella well to avoid watery salad. Toss gently to keep tortellini intact. Chill at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor. Adjust seasoning in layers. Can substitute salami with pepperoni, prosciutto, or chicken. Use gluten-free tortellini and dairy-free mayo/sour cream for dietary adaptations.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta salad, tortellini salad, creamy pasta salad, salami pasta salad, mozzarella pasta salad, summer recipes, party recipes, easy pasta salad

Find it online: https://blixfood.com/creamy-salami-mozzarella-tortellini-pasta-salad-easy-summer-party-recipe/