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Italian Grinder Tortellini Salad
John

Italian Grinder Tortellini Salad

Creamy Italian Grinder Tortellini Salad with salami, provolone, fresh mozzarella, and tangy vegetables in a rich grinder dressing. Perfect for potlucks and summer gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
chilling time 2 hours
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 485

Ingredients
  

  • 20 ounces refrigerated three-cheese tortellini
  • 6 ounces Genoa salami cut into thin strips
  • 4 ounces mini pepperoni
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls or torn mozzarella
  • 4 ounces provolone cheese cut into thin strips
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
  • 1 stalk celery finely diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion thinly sliced
  • 1/3 cup pepperoncini peppers sliced and drained
  • 1/3 cup giardiniera chopped and well drained
  • 1/4 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese grated
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh Italian parsley chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh oregano chopped
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons pepperoncini brine
  • 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Colander
  • Whisk
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Cook the tortellini according to package directions until just tender. Drain and rinse briefly under cold water, then drain thoroughly.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, red wine vinegar, pepperoncini brine, lemon juice, olive oil, grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until smooth.
  3. While the tortellini is still slightly warm, toss it with half of the dressing. Let it cool for about 10 minutes so the pasta absorbs the flavors.
  4. Add the salami, pepperoni, mozzarella, provolone, tomatoes, celery, red onion, pepperoncini, giardiniera, oregano, parsley, and remaining grated Parmigiano-Reggiano. Toss gently until evenly combined.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together.
  6. Just before serving, gently fold in the shredded lettuce, fresh basil, and the remaining dressing. Transfer to a serving bowl and finish with shaved Parmigiano-Reggiano, basil ribbons, pepperoncini slices, and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Notes

  • Rinse cooked tortellini with cold water to prevent mushiness and remove excess starch
  • Drain vegetables thoroughly to avoid watery salad
  • Flavors improve overnight, making this perfect for make-ahead entertaining
  • Store in airtight container for up to 4 days