Description
A vibrant and easy Tortellini Caprese Salad combining tender cheese tortellini, fresh cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella pearls, and fragrant basil, tossed in a zesty balsamic and garlic dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing side dish, this salad brings together Italian-inspired flavors with a nutritious twist.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 20 oz cheese tortellini, uncooked
- 10 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz mozzarella pearls
- 1 cup chopped spinach
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
Dressing
- ½ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
- ¾ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Optional
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
Instructions
- Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, typically about 7-9 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the tortellini.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, chopped spinach, and chopped fresh basil.
- Toss with Dressing: Pour the dressing over the tortellini mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Before serving, optionally drizzle with balsamic glaze for added sweetness and presentation.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh mozzarella pearls instead of pre-shredded cheese.
- This salad can be prepared a few hours in advance to let the flavors meld.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- To make this salad vegan, substitute cheese tortellini with a plant-based alternative and omit mozzarella or use vegan cheese pearls.
- Adjust the garlic quantity to your preference for spice and aroma.
