Description

This Tortellini Caprese Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines tender cheese tortellini with juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil. Tossed in a simple balsamic and olive oil dressing, it’s perfect as a light lunch or a colorful side dish. The salad is chilled to meld flavors and optionally finished with a sweet balsamic glaze for an extra touch of elegance and taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

1 package cheese tortellini (about 20 oz)
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional

Balsamic glaze for drizzling

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Instructions

Cook the Tortellini: Follow the package instructions to cook the cheese tortellini until al dente. Once cooked, drain thoroughly and spread on a plate or tray to cool to room temperature, preventing clumping and ensuring the salad doesn’t become soggy.
Prepare the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tortellini with halved cherry tomatoes, halved fresh mozzarella balls, and chopped fresh basil. This mix forms the fresh and vibrant base of the salad.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper until well blended. This simple dressing adds a tangy, savory flavor to the salad.
Toss the Salad: Pour the prepared balsamic dressing over the tortellini mixture. Gently toss everything together to ensure every bite is evenly coated with the flavorful dressing.
Chill and Serve: Transfer the salad to the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a more cohesive and refreshing salad.
Optional Finish: Just before serving, drizzle the salad with balsamic glaze for an added layer of sweetness and a visually appealing presentation.
Enjoy: Serve the Tortellini Caprese Salad cold as a delightful, light meal or side dish and savor the fresh, vibrant flavors.

Notes

Use fresh mozzarella bocconcini for authentic texture and flavor.
Chilling the salad enhances the melding of flavors, but if pressed for time, it can be served immediately.
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free tortellini.
Adding a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper just before serving can elevate the taste.
Balsamic glaze is optional but recommended for an extra touch of sweetness and presentation.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Boiling
Cuisine: Italian