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A vibrant combination of cheese tortellini, cured meats, and Italian antipasto favorites creates a hearty pasta salad perfect for summer gatherings. Each bite delivers the perfect balance of tender pasta, savory meats, and zesty dressing.
Making this for a neighborhood potluck changed my approach to pasta salad forever. The way the tortellini absorbs the dressing while staying tender makes it irresistible.
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Essential Ingredients:
- Cheese tortellini: Fresh or frozen works best
- Cured meats: Mix of salami and pepperoni
- Fresh mozzarella pearls: Adds creamy texture
- Mixed olives: Provides briny flavor
- Roasted red peppers: Sweet and smoky notes
- Homemade dressing: Brings everything together
Detailed Instructions:
- Prepare Pasta
- Cook tortellini until just al dente
- Rinse immediately with cold water
- Drain thoroughly
- Toss with olive oil
- Prep Components
- Halve cherry tomatoes
- Cube provolone cheese
- Slice meats into bite-size pieces
- Drain olives and peppers well
- Make Dressing
- Whisk olive oil and vinegar
- Add fresh garlic and herbs
- Balance with touch of sugar
- Season to taste
- Assemble Salad
- Combine ingredients in large bowl
- Add dressing gradually
- Toss gently
- Chill minimum 2 hours
- Chill minimum 2 hours
The secret to perfect texture is allowing proper chill time for flavors to meld without letting pasta get soggy.
Storage Success:
Keep covered in fridge up to 3 days. Refresh with extra dressing if needed.
Make-Ahead Tips:
Prepare components separately and combine with dressing 2-3 hours before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
Ideal for picnics, potlucks, or summer barbecues. Serve with extra fresh basil.
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Chef's Tips:
- Use room temperature ingredients
- Dress salad while pasta is warm
- Reserve some dressing for serving
Years of making this salad have taught me that quality ingredients and proper assembly timing create the perfect potluck dish every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make it ahead?
- Yes, up to 24 hours. Add extra dressing before serving.
- → How long does it keep?
- 3-4 days refrigerated in airtight container.
- → What tortellini works best?
- Fresh or frozen cheese tortellini preferred over dried.
- → Can I use different meats?
- Try prosciutto, ham, or capicola instead.
- → Tips for serving?
- Let sit 20 minutes at room temp before serving.