Description
A fresh and vibrant Tortellini Caprese Salad combining cheesy tortellini, juicy cherry tomatoes, tender spinach, and mozzarella pearls, all tossed in a flavorful olive oil and balsamic dressing. Perfect for a quick, satisfying appetizer or light meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad:
- 20 oz cheese tortellini, uncooked (approximately 5 cups uncooked)
- 10 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz mozzarella pearls
- 1 cup chopped spinach
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
Dressing & Seasoning:
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
- 3/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
- Cook the tortellini: Prepare the cheese tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the tortellini and rinse briefly with cool water to stop the cooking process and cool slightly.
- Combine ingredients: In a medium to large mixing bowl, add the cooked tortellini, chopped spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, chopped basil, and minced garlic. Pour in the olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then sprinkle the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the mixture.
- Toss the salad: Mix all ingredients thoroughly to ensure the dressing evenly coats the salad. Adjust seasoning or olive oil if needed for taste and texture.
- Chill before serving: Refrigerate the salad until ready to serve. Just before serving, toss again to redistribute any settled olive oil. Optionally, drizzle balsamic glaze on top for added flavor and presentation.
- Store leftovers: Keep any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Rinsing the tortellini with cool water helps to stop the cooking process and cool it for a pasta salad.
- Use fresh basil for the best flavor but dried can be substituted in a pinch.
- Balsamic glaze adds a sweet, tangy finish but is optional.
- This salad can be made a few hours ahead and refrigerated to allow flavors to meld.
- Ensure the salad is well chilled before serving for the freshest taste.
