Easy Tortellini Caprese Pasta Salad: Fresh & Flavorful
This Tortellini Caprese Pasta Salad is a vibrant and fresh dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer. Bursting with flavors from juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil, it’s an easy crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 5 mins
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- Fresh refrigerated cheese tortellini
- Cherry or grape tomatoes
- Fresh mozzarella (Bocconcini or pearls)
- Fresh basil leaves
- Good quality extra virgin olive oil
- Balsamic glaze
- Salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually 3-5 minutes. Drain thoroughly.
- Cool the Tortellini: Rinse the cooked tortellini under cold water for about 30 seconds to stop the cooking process. Spread the cooled tortellini on a baking sheet or plate to cool to room temperature.
- Prepare the Caprese Components: Halve the cherry or grape tomatoes. For bocconcini, halve them; for pearl mozzarella, leave them whole. Cube larger mozzarella into bite-sized pieces. Tear or roughly chop the fresh basil leaves.
- Assemble the Salad: Transfer the cooled tortellini to a large mixing bowl. Add the halved tomatoes, prepared mozzarella, and fresh basil.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Toss and Chill: Gently toss all ingredients until well combined. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to an hour.
- Serve: Toss gently before serving and add extra balsamic glaze or basil leaves for garnish if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
Keywords: Fully cooling the tortellini is crucial to prevent the mozzarella from melting. Adjust seasonings to taste before serving, and consider adding red onion or grilled chicken for extra flavor.