Step 1

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to directions on the package. Drain and set add to a large serving bowl.

Step 2

Combine dressing ingredients in a pint size mason jar. Seal and shake the living tar out of it. Pour half of the dressing over the warm pasta and toss to combine.

Step 3

Add the remaining salad ingredients to the bowl and toss until well coated. Serve immediate or refrigerate until ready to serve. I like to reserve some of the basil and pepperoni to scatter on top when serving.

Step 4

Salad is excellent the next day. This is a fantastic make ahead salad. When making ahead, use 1/2 of the dressing when preparing the salad. Reserve the remaining dressing to pour over the salad before you serve. If you use all of the dressing initially your pasta may soak up all the dressing.