Tortellini Pasta Salad – Pork-Free & Packed with Flavor
A vibrant, hearty pasta salad loaded with cheese tortellini, fresh veggies, turkey salami, and a tangy Dijon vinaigrette—perfect for easy lunches or summer gatherings.
🎉 Introduction
This Tortellini Pasta Salad is a deliciously colorful and satisfying dish that's free from pork but full of flavor. With cheesy tortellini, crisp vegetables, turkey salami, and a zesty vinaigrette, it's perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or light dinners. Easy to toss together and even easier to enjoy! 🌿🍅🧀
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Saucepan for tortellini
- Colander
- Cutting board & knife
- Whisk and small bowl (for dressing)
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Tongs or salad servers
Ingredients
🥟 Pasta & Meat
- 20 oz cheese tortellini refrigerated or fresh
- ½ cup turkey salami or turkey pepperoni, sliced
🌿 Veggies & Herbs
- 2 cups baby spinach or arugula
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cucumber diced
- ½ red onion thinly sliced
- ¼ cup fresh basil thinly sliced
🫒 Add-ons
- 1 cup pitted Kalamata olives
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls bocconcini, halved
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
🥗 Dressing
- ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 clove garlic minced (or pressed)
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
- Boil tortellini according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water. Let cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
- Whisk olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine cooled tortellini, turkey salami, spinach/arugula, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, basil, olives, and mozzarella.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and serve, or chill for 30 minutes for peak flavor.
Notes
🥄 Variations
Vegetarian Version: Omit turkey salami; add extra cheese or chickpeas Spicy Kick: Swap Dijon for spicy mustard or add chili flakes Greens Swap: Use kale, mixed greens, or romaine instead Healthier Swap: Replace tortellini with whole-wheat pasta or orzo Crunch Addition: Add toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds 🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store in airtight container up to 4 days Make-Ahead Tip: Chill separately and toss dressing just before serving to maintain freshness ❓ 10 FAQs
Is this recipe really pork-free?
Yes! Using turkey salami ensures it's fully pork-free. Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely—make the night before and toss with fresh dressing before serving. Can I use other pasta shapes?
Sure—mini shells, fusilli, or orzo works great. Can I freeze leftovers?
Not recommended—best enjoyed fresh. Can I add grilled chicken?
Yes—great for extra protein. Can I omit olives?
Of course—try roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts instead. How spicy is this?
It's mild—adjust mustard or add chili to spice it up. Is it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free tortellini to make it gluten-free. Can I use flavored salami?
Yes—smoked turkey salami adds a nice twist. What to serve alongside?
Serve with garlic bread, grilled veggies, or a simple green salad. 🏁 Conclusion
This Tortellini Pasta Salad is a flavorful, pork-free delight—perfect for summer gatherings, easy lunches, or meal prepping. With creamy tortellini, fresh veggies, turkey salami, and zesty dressing, it's a dish everyone will go back for seconds. Give it a try and enjoy the burst of colors and flavors! 🥗✨
Vegetarian Version: Omit turkey salami; add extra cheese or chickpeas Spicy Kick: Swap Dijon for spicy mustard or add chili flakes Greens Swap: Use kale, mixed greens, or romaine instead Healthier Swap: Replace tortellini with whole-wheat pasta or orzo Crunch Addition: Add toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds 🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store in airtight container up to 4 days Make-Ahead Tip: Chill separately and toss dressing just before serving to maintain freshness ❓ 10 FAQs
Is this recipe really pork-free?
Yes! Using turkey salami ensures it's fully pork-free. Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely—make the night before and toss with fresh dressing before serving. Can I use other pasta shapes?
Sure—mini shells, fusilli, or orzo works great. Can I freeze leftovers?
Not recommended—best enjoyed fresh. Can I add grilled chicken?
Yes—great for extra protein. Can I omit olives?
Of course—try roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts instead. How spicy is this?
It's mild—adjust mustard or add chili to spice it up. Is it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free tortellini to make it gluten-free. Can I use flavored salami?
Yes—smoked turkey salami adds a nice twist. What to serve alongside?
Serve with garlic bread, grilled veggies, or a simple green salad. 🏁 Conclusion
This Tortellini Pasta Salad is a flavorful, pork-free delight—perfect for summer gatherings, easy lunches, or meal prepping. With creamy tortellini, fresh veggies, turkey salami, and zesty dressing, it's a dish everyone will go back for seconds. Give it a try and enjoy the burst of colors and flavors! 🥗✨