Tortellini Caprese Salad Recipe
A vibrant and fresh Tortellini Caprese Salad featuring cheese tortellini, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and fresh greens, tossed in a flavorful balsamic and garlic dressing. Perfect as a light meal or appetizer, this salad combines classic Italian flavors with a satisfying pasta base for a quick and easy dish ready in just 25 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Salad
- 20 oz cheese tortellini, uncooked (approximately 5 cups uncooked)
- 10 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz Mozzarella pearls
- 1 cup chopped spinach
- ¼ - ½ cup chopped fresh basil
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
Dressing
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
- ¾ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
- Cook the tortellini: Prepare the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and rinse briefly with cool water to stop the cooking and cool the pasta slightly.
- Combine ingredients: In a medium to large bowl, add the cooked tortellini, chopped spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, chopped basil, and minced garlic. Pour the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the ingredients, then sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the salad: Mix all the ingredients well to ensure the dressing evenly coats the salad components. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Chill the salad until ready to serve, allowing flavors to meld.
- Serve and garnish: Before serving, toss the salad again to redistribute the dressing. If the salad seems dry, add a bit more olive oil. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired for an added touch of sweetness and presentation.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it a convenient option for make-ahead meals.
Notes
- Be sure not to overcook the tortellini; it should be firm to the bite for best texture in the salad.
- Adjust the amount of basil based on your preference for a milder or more herbaceous flavor.
- Balsamic glaze adds a sweet tang and beautiful finish but is optional.
- This salad can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
- For a lighter version, reduce olive oil or substitute with a lighter dressing.
Find it online: https://recipefeastful.com/tortellini-caprese-salad-recipe/