Name: Italian Grinder Tortellini Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 25 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

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Introduction

This Italian Grinder Tortellini Salad is a flavorful and hearty pasta salad perfect for gatherings or a satisfying lunch. Packed with savory meats, fresh vegetables, and a creamy tangy dressing, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare ahead of time.

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 the 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 tortellini to the dressing. Gently toss to coat the pasta evenly.
Step 3: Add the chopped pepperoncini, grated parmesan cheese, diced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped pepperoni, salami, and deli ham to the bowl.
Step 4: Carefully toss all the ingredients together with a large spoon or rubber spatula until well combined and the tortellini is coated in 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 a gentle stir to refresh the dressing. Serve cold and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

For a lighter version, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
Feel free to add chopped fresh basil or parsley for an extra fresh flavor.
Omit the meats or use your favorite Italian cold cuts depending on your preference.
Make the salad a few hours ahead to let the flavors fully develop, but add delicate ingredients like tomatoes right before serving to keep them fresh.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may absorb more dressing over time, so stir gently before serving. It’s best enjoyed cold, and reheating is not recommended as it will change the texture.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a white bowl filled with a mix of tortellini pasta, halved red cherry tomatoes, sliced pieces of ham and salami, diced green celery, and small chunks of red onion. The tortellini are pale yellow with a soft, smooth texture, layered evenly with the bright red tomatoes and pinkish meat slices. The dish is lightly sprinkled with black pepper, adding small dark specks across the colorful layers. A silver fork rests inside the bowl on the right side, and the bowl sits on a white marbled surface with some blurred green herbs and a single cherry tomato in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tortellini instead of dried?

Yes, fresh tortellini can be used. Just cook according to package instructions and cool before adding to the salad. Fresh tortellini may be more delicate, so toss gently to avoid tearing.

Can this salad be made vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayo alternative, omit the cheese or use a plant-based parmesan, and replace the meats with marinated tofu or roasted vegetables.