Name: Tortellini Caprese Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 20 oz cheese tortellini (uncooked); 10 oz cherry tomatoes (halved); 8 oz mozzarella pearls; 1 cup chopped spinach; 1/4 cup chopped basil; 1/2 cup olive oil; 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar; 3-4 garlic cloves (minced); 3/4 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

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A twist on the classic, this Tortellini Caprese Salad is the pasta salad of the summer—and every season in between. You can whip it up in just 10 minutes, making it a quick and delicious option for any occasion. With fresh flavors of basil, juicy tomatoes, cheesy tortellini, and a delightful balsamic glaze, it’s perfect as a refreshing side dish or a hearty meal on its own.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This salad comes together in just 10 minutes, making it ideal for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
Fresh Ingredients: Enjoy the vibrant flavors of fresh basil, tomatoes, and spinach that brighten up your plate.

Versatile Dish: Serve it warm or cold; it’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a light dinner any night of the week.
Hearty Yet Light: Packed with protein from cheese tortellini and mozzarella, it’s satisfying without being heavy.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to five days—perfect for meal prep!

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your Tortellini Caprese Salad, gather your tools to streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Colander

Medium to large mixing bowl
Knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Essential for boiling the tortellini to perfection without overcrowding.
Colander: Helps strain cooked tortellini quickly while keeping them intact.
Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to toss all ingredients together without spilling.

Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when chopping vegetables and herbs.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 20 oz cheese tortellini, uncooked (approximately 5 cups uncooked)
– 10 oz. cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz. Mozzarella pearls
– 1 c chopped spinach
– 1/4 c chopped basil
– 1/2 c olive oil
– 2 T balsamic vinegar
– 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
– 3/4 tsp Italian seasoning
– 1/2 tsp salt and pepper
– Balsamic glaze (optional)

How to Make Tortellini Caprese Salad

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Once cooked, strain the water using a colander. Rinse the tortellini with cool water for a few seconds to stop cooking.

Step 2: Prepare Other Ingredients

While the tortellini cools, chop all other ingredients including spinach, cherry tomatoes, basil, and garlic.

Set aside all prepared ingredients in separate bowls for easy mixing.

Step 3: Combine Everything

In a medium to large mixing bowl, add the cooled tortellini.
Toss in chopped spinach, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, chopped basil, and minced garlic.

Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Sprinkle Italian seasoning along with salt and pepper over the top.

Step 4: Toss and Chill

Gently toss all ingredients together until well combined.
Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Step 5: Serve

Before serving, give the salad another gentle toss to redistribute any olive oil that may have settled at the bottom.
If desired, drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving for an extra touch of flavor.

With this easy-to-follow guide on making Tortellini Caprese Salad, you’ll have a delightful dish ready for any occasion!

How to Serve Tortellini Caprese Salad

Tortellini Caprese Salad is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether as a main course or a side, there are numerous serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Main Course

Serve it chilled for a refreshing summer meal.
Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.

As a Side Dish

Pair it with grilled meats like steak or chicken.
Complement it with crusty bread to soak up the flavors.

For Picnics and Potlucks

Pack in portable containers for easy transport.

Drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving for added flavor.

In Individual Servings

Use mason jars for beautiful presentation.
Layer ingredients for a visually appealing dish.

How to Perfect Tortellini Caprese Salad

To ensure your Tortellini Caprese Salad is always a hit, consider these helpful tips.

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh basil and ripe tomatoes elevate the flavors significantly.
Cook tortellini al dente: This gives the pasta the right texture and prevents it from becoming mushy.

Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to chill enhances the flavors and makes it more refreshing.
Adjust seasonings: Taste and add more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning according to your preference.
Drizzle with glaze last minute: This keeps the salad looking fresh and prevents sogginess.

Best Side Dishes for Tortellini Caprese Salad

Tortellini Caprese Salad pairs well with various sides that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great ideas:

Garlic Bread: A classic choice that adds crunch and flavor.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies provide a smoky taste that balances the salad.

Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing make for a complementary pairing.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds sweetness to your meal.
Caprese Skewers: Miniature versions of the salad on skewers are fun and easy to eat.

Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, olives, and cheeses enhances Italian flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Tortellini Caprese Salad, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes and tips to ensure your salad is a hit.

Overcooking the Tortellini: Cooking tortellini for too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions for al dente texture.

Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or low-quality ingredients diminishes flavor. Always opt for fresh basil, ripe tomatoes, and good quality cheese.
Not Chilling Before Serving: Serving the salad warm can lead to a lackluster experience. Chill it well to enhance flavors before serving.
Ignoring Seasoning: Overlooking seasoning can make the dish bland. Be sure to add enough salt, pepper, and seasoning as per your taste.

Using Too Much Dressing: Excess dressing can overwhelm the salad. Start with a little and add more if needed after mixing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Keep your Tortellini Caprese Salad in an airtight container.
It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Tortellini Caprese Salad

Freezing is not recommended due to the fresh ingredients like tomatoes and spinach which may lose texture.
If you do freeze, only freeze tortellini separately for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tortellini Caprese Salad

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place salad in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.

Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warm.
Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Tortellini Caprese Salad.

How long does Tortellini Caprese Salad last?

Tortellini Caprese Salad lasts up to 5 days in the refrigerator if stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I customize my Tortellini Caprese Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or olives, or switch out mozzarella for feta cheese.

Is Tortellini Caprese Salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This salad is perfect for meal prep. Just store it in individual containers for quick lunches throughout the week.

What can I serve with Tortellini Caprese Salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or as a side dish at barbecues and gatherings.

Final Thoughts

The Tortellini Caprese Salad is not just a summer dish; it’s enjoyable year-round! With its fresh flavors and simple preparation, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients for added variety!