Description
This refreshing Tortellini Caprese Salad combines tender cheese tortellini with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella pearls, fresh spinach, and fragrant basil, all tossed in a vibrant olive oil and balsamic vinegar dressing. Perfect as a light meal or side dish, this Italian-inspired salad is easy to prepare and served chilled, making it ideal for warm-weather dining or meal prep.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 20 oz cheese tortellini, uncooked (approximately 5 cups uncooked)
Vegetables & Herbs
- 10 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup chopped spinach
- ¼ – ½ cup chopped basil
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
Dairy
- 8 oz mozzarella pearls
Dressing & Seasonings
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
- ¾ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- Balsamic glaze (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the tortellini and rinse briefly with cool water to stop the cooking process and cool it slightly.
- Prepare the Salad Ingredients: While the tortellini cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes, chop the spinach and basil, and mince the garlic cloves. Set these aside ready for assembly.
- Combine and Dress the Salad: In a medium to large bowl, add the cooled tortellini, spinach, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, chopped basil, and minced garlic. Pour over the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss everything thoroughly to combine and evenly coat all ingredients in the dressing.
- Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad until ready to serve. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Before serving, toss the salad again to redistribute any olive oil that may have settled at the bottom, and add a bit more olive oil if it appears dry.
- Serve with a Finishing Touch: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad just before serving for a sweet and tangy accent that complements the Caprese flavors perfectly.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making this salad excellent for meal prep and easy enjoyment over several days.
Notes
- Cook tortellini just until al dente to avoid a mushy texture in the salad.
- The amount of chopped basil can be adjusted to taste; fresh basil is key for authentic Caprese flavor.
- Optionally, add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
- Make sure to toss the salad well before serving to redistribute the dressing, as olive oil tends to settle.
- Balsamic glaze adds a lovely sweetness but is optional if you prefer a lighter salad.
- Store the salad chilled and consume within 5 days for best freshness and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
