This Meaty Tortellini Summer Salad brings together tender cheese-filled tortellini, savory Italian sausage and pepperoni, and colorful fresh veggies, all tossed in a zesty red wine‑vinegar dressing. It’s hearty enough to satisfy as a main dish yet refreshingly light when served chilled—ideal for warm afternoons or casual gatherings.
With its bold flavors and vibrant appearance, this salad is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate. You can customize it easily—swap provolone for mozzarella, add spinach or arugula, or use a spicy sausage for an extra kick. It’s the perfect make‑ahead option for potlucks, picnics, or weekly meal prep.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 lb (450 g) cheese tortellini
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8 oz (225 g) Italian sausage, casings removed
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1/2 cup mini pepperoni, halved
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1/2 cup provolone cheese, cubed
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1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
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1/4 cup black olives, sliced
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2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
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Dressing:
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1/3 cup olive oil
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2 tbsp red wine vinegar
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1 tsp Dijon mustard
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1 clove garlic, minced
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1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
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Salt & pepper to taste
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Directions:
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Cook tortellini according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water; set aside.
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In a skillet over medium heat, crumble Italian sausage and cook until no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes. Drain any excess fat and let it cool.
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In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper.
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Add the cooled tortellini, cooked sausage, cherry tomatoes, pepperoni, provolone, red onion, black olives, and parsley to the bowl.
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Toss everything gently until well coated with dressing.
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Cover and chill in the refrigerator at least 1 hour to let flavors meld.
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Serve cold or at room temperature.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes (including chilling) | Kcal: approximately 520 kcal per serving | Servings: 6
A Flavor-Packed Twist on Traditional Pasta Salad
The Meaty Tortellini Summer Salad is a hearty, satisfying, and flavor-packed dish that elevates the classic pasta salad to a new level. Unlike standard versions that rely solely on vegetables and vinaigrettes, this dish brings together cheese-filled tortellini, zesty Italian sausage, spicy mini pepperoni, and provolone cheese, all tossed in a tangy homemade red wine vinaigrette. The richness of the proteins balances beautifully with the freshness of the veggies and the brightness of the dressing, making this salad an absolute crowd-pleaser.
Ideal for outdoor cookouts, casual lunches, meal prep, or as a dish to bring to a potluck, it’s not only versatile but delivers a full spectrum of textures and flavors. The tortellini provide a satisfying chew and creaminess, while the meats add depth, and the fresh ingredients like tomatoes and red onion contribute crispness and a burst of color.
Perfect for Summer Entertaining and Easy Meal Prep
What sets this recipe apart is its utility—it works as a side dish, a light main course, or part of a buffet table. It holds up beautifully in warm weather when kept chilled, making it an excellent addition to picnics or outdoor dining. Because the flavors deepen as the salad sits, it’s also ideal for preparing in advance. In fact, it’s best made at least a few hours ahead or even the night before, giving the tortellini and proteins time to soak up the tangy vinaigrette.
Beyond its entertaining value, the salad also fits easily into a busy weekly meal plan. A single batch can provide several servings for quick lunches or no-cook dinners. The ingredients hold their texture and flavor for several days in the fridge, meaning you’ll always have something delicious and ready to eat.
Balanced Flavor and Texture in Every Bite
The genius of this dish lies in the balance of its ingredients. The cheesy tortellini bring creamy richness, countered by the spicy and savory punch from the sausage and pepperoni. Provolone adds a salty, slightly sharp edge that complements the meats and pasta.
Fresh veggies like cherry tomatoes and red onion cut through the richness with juicy acidity and a bit of crunch. Black olives bring a mild brininess that rounds out the flavors. A light but flavorful vinaigrette made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, and herbs ties everything together. It’s zesty without overpowering the components, allowing each element to shine while harmonizing the whole.
Customizable to Fit Any Taste or Diet
One of the most appealing aspects of this tortellini salad is its customizability. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on your preferences, dietary needs, or what you have in your pantry. For a milder version, use turkey sausage or even grilled chicken instead of Italian sausage. Want a vegetarian option? Simply skip the meats and add more cheese or grilled vegetables like zucchini, artichokes, or roasted red peppers.
You can also swap in different kinds of cheese—mozzarella pearls, feta, or shaved parmesan all work well. For added greens, stir in arugula, spinach, or baby kale just before serving. The dressing, too, is flexible. Try using balsamic vinegar for a sweeter note or add a spoonful of pesto for an herby twist.
A Make-Ahead Meal with Incredible Convenience
Few dishes are as convenient and satisfying as this Meaty Tortellini Summer Salad. It can be made ahead of time, stored easily, and served chilled straight from the fridge. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or need a guaranteed hit for your weekend gathering, this recipe has you covered.
It also travels well, making it a great option for road trips, boat days, or lunches at the office. Pack it in a reusable container with a fork, and you’ve got a flavorful, filling, and balanced meal at your fingertips with no need for reheating.
Why This Dish Works for Every Occasion
The appeal of this dish spans ages, preferences, and events. Kids love the cheesy tortellini and mild pepperoni; adults appreciate the gourmet flavor profile and heartiness. It works beautifully as a potluck item since it’s unexpected but universally appealing.
The presentation is another strong point. The vibrant reds of tomatoes and pepperoni, the golden pasta, the creamy white cheese cubes, and the pop of green parsley make this salad as visually appealing as it is delicious. Serve it in a glass bowl to show off its colorful layers or scoop into individual cups for a more modern party touch.
Storage and Leftover Tips
Store this tortellini salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you’re prepping it for later use or a gathering, be sure to give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing. If the pasta absorbs too much of the vinaigrette and starts to feel dry, simply drizzle a bit of olive oil and vinegar to refresh it.
If you’re planning to store leftovers, hold off on adding leafy greens like arugula or spinach until just before serving—they tend to wilt quickly when stored mixed in with the dressing.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, like chicken thighs, steak tips, or even BBQ ribs. It’s also lovely with crusty garlic bread and a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon. If serving as a side at a buffet or cookout, pair it alongside dishes like grilled corn, caprese skewers, or an antipasto platter.
To turn this into a main course on its own, serve it over a bed of greens or add hard-boiled eggs for extra protein. For a Mediterranean spin, add marinated artichokes, roasted red peppers, and crumbled feta.
The Secret is in the Dressing
While the bold proteins and tortellini take center stage, it’s the homemade dressing that elevates this dish to memorable status. A simple vinaigrette with red wine vinegar, good olive oil, a touch of Dijon mustard, and herbs gives the entire dish brightness and cohesion. The vinegar cuts through the richness of the cheese and meat, making each bite taste balanced and fresh.
Don’t underestimate the power of good seasoning either—salt and pepper go a long way in drawing out the flavors. For an extra punch, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or fresh oregano.
Conclusion: Your New Go-To Summer Salad
In a world full of predictable side dishes, the Meaty Tortellini Summer Salad stands out as a dynamic and delicious option that delivers on flavor, texture, and presentation. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, planning your weekly meal prep, or just craving something hearty but not hot, this salad fits the bill.
It’s rich without being heavy, fresh without being bland, and easy without feeling boring. The customizable nature makes it suitable for nearly any dietary preference, and its versatility ensures it earns a permanent spot in your warm-weather recipe rotation. So the next time you’re wondering what to bring to a potluck or need a quick dinner that everyone will enjoy—this tortellini salad is your answer.