Description
This refreshing Tortellini Caprese Salad combines tender cheese tortellini with fresh cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella pearls, vibrant spinach, and fragrant basil, all tossed in a tangy olive oil and balsamic vinegar dressing. Perfect for a quick and easy 15-minute meal or side dish, this salad is vibrant, flavorful, and ideal for warm weather gatherings or light lunches.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 20 oz cheese tortellini (uncooked)
- 10 oz cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 8 oz mozzarella pearls
- 1 cup chopped spinach
- 1/4 cup chopped basil
Dressing
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 3-4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 3/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Tortellini: Prepare the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the water and rinse the tortellini with cool water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked and cooled tortellini along with chopped spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, chopped basil, and minced garlic. Mix gently to combine the fresh ingredients evenly.
- Prepare Dressing: Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the combined ingredients. Sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper on top to enhance the flavor.
- Toss and Chill: Gently toss all ingredients thoroughly until the dressing is evenly distributed and the salad is well combined. Cover and refrigerate the salad until ready to serve to let the flavors meld.
Notes
- For best flavor, chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- You can substitute fresh mozzarella pearls with mini mozzarella balls if desired.
- Adding a splash of lemon juice can add extra brightness to the dressing.
- This salad is best served cold or at room temperature.
- Feel free to include other fresh vegetables such as cucumbers or bell peppers for added crunch.