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Caprese Tortellini Salad with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella, and Basil Recipe

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3.9 from 22 reviews

A fresh and vibrant Caprese Salad featuring cheese tortellini, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, spinach, and basil, all dressed in a flavorful blend of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and Italian seasoning. This easy-to-make salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish, served chilled and garnished with optional balsamic glaze for added sweetness and tang.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

  • 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 basil

Dressing and 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

  1. Cook Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and rinse under cool running water for a few seconds to stop the cooking process and slightly cool the pasta.
  2. Combine Salad Ingredients: Transfer the cooled tortellini to a medium to large bowl. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, chopped spinach, chopped basil, and minced garlic to the bowl.
  3. Add Dressing and Season: Pour the olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad mixture. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together thoroughly to evenly coat all ingredients with the dressing.
  4. Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad until ready to serve. This enhances the flavors and keeps the salad refreshing.
  5. Serve with Garnish: Before serving, toss the salad again to redistribute any olive oil settled at the bottom. Adjust the olive oil quantity if the salad appears dry. Drizzle balsamic glaze on top if desired for a sweet and tangy finish.
  6. Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume within 2-3 days for best freshness.

Notes

  • For best results, use fresh mozzarella pearls and fresh basil leaves to maximize flavor.
  • If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, increase the minced garlic to 5 cloves.
  • This salad can be made a few hours ahead of time and kept chilled to allow flavors to meld.
  • Gently toss the salad before serving to revive the dressing coating after refrigerating.
  • Balsamic glaze is optional but adds a beautiful glossy appearance and a sweet tangy flavor contrast.
  • To make it vegetarian-friendly, ensure the tortellini is cheese-based and contains no animal rennet.
  • This dish is best served cold or at room temperature.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Find it online: https://yourdailycook.com/caprese-tortellini-salad-with-cherry-tomatoes-mozzarella-and-basil-recipe/