Description
Tortellini Caprese Salad is a refreshing Italian-inspired dish featuring tender cheese tortellini combined with sweet cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and fragrant basil leaves. Tossed in a simple dressing of olive oil and aged balsamic glaze, this vibrant salad makes a perfect light lunch or a colorful side dish, ideal for warm weather and easy entertaining.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 (20 oz) package cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (plus more for drizzling)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the tortellini: Prepare the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions, typically boiling them until tender. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water immediately to halt the cooking process and cool them down. Set aside to cool completely.
- Combine the salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, place the cooled tortellini, halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and chopped or torn basil leaves. This mixture forms the fresh and flavorful base of the salad.
- Add the dressing and toss: Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic glaze over the tortellini mixture. Gently toss everything together to ensure the ingredients are well-coated with the dressing but avoid breaking the mozzarella balls.
- Season and chill: Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Cover the salad and refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill for the best refreshing taste.
- Serve with garnish: Before serving, drizzle additional balsamic glaze over the top if desired for extra sweetness and presentation. Serve chilled as a delightful appetizer, side, or light meal.
Notes
- For a heartier salad, add grilled chicken strips for extra protein.
- Include pine nuts or toasted walnuts to introduce a crunchy texture.
- This salad is best served fresh but can be prepared a few hours in advance and refrigerated until serving.
- Use high-quality olive oil and balsamic glaze for the best flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 440mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
