Caprese Tortellini Pasta Salad
User Reviews
5
Caprese Tortellini Pasta Salad
Description
This Caprese Tortellini Pasta Salad combines refrigerated cheese tortellini cooked and cooled, with halved mozzarella balls, halved little tomatoes such as cherry or grape, and fresh basil sliced or torn thin. Olive oil, salt, and black pepper season the salad, with a finishing balsamic glaze added to taste. The tortellini provides a soft, cheesy base, while tomatoes add brightness and the basil contributes fresh herbal notes.
The salad is prepared by cooking tortellini according to package directions, rinsing under cold water, then combining with the other ingredients in a large bowl. The addition of balsamic glaze adds a glossy, sweet-acidic element that contrasts with the creamy mozzarella. Olive oil integrates the flavors and adds richness.
It can be served immediately or chilled for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. It serves well as a side dish for about 6-8 people or a main course for around 4. The recipe suggests adding basil and balsamic glaze just before serving if prepared ahead to maintain freshness of the herbs and glaze appearance.
Ingredients
- 1 (20 ounce) cheese tortellini package refrigerated
- 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- 1 dry pint tomato halved, little (grape, cherry, etc
- 12 ounces mozzarella balls halved
- 2 tablespoons onion optional, red, chopped
- Generous handful basil sliced/torn thin, fresh
- balsamic glaze to taste
Instructions
- Boil a large, salted pot of water for the tortellini. Cook according to package directions.
- While the pasta cooks, prep your other ingredients.
- Once the tortellini is done, rinse it under cold water, drain it for a few minutes, then add it to a large bowl along with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil and some salt & pepper (I am generous with both). Toss.
- Add the tomatoes, mozzarella, onion (if using), and basil to the salad bowl.
- Add the remaining olive oil and balsamic glaze to the salad and toss. I don't list a quantity for the balsamic glaze because it really depends on your personal preferences. Taste and adjust as needed.
- You can chill the salad for 30 minutes prior to serving or dig in right away.
Notes
- Use mozzarella balls packed in oil and herbs to enhance flavor.
- Add basil, balsamic glaze, and extra olive oil just before serving when making ahead.
- The salad serves 6-8 as a side or 4 as a main dish.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 487 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 487kcal | 24% |
| Carbohydrates | 44g | 15% |
| Protein | 24g | 48% |
| Fat | 25g | 38% |
| Saturated Fat | 7g | 35% |
| Cholesterol | 56mg | 19% |
| Sodium | 451mg | 19% |
| Potassium | 7mg | 0% |
| Fiber | 4g | 16% |
| Sugar | 4g | 8% |
| Vitamin A | 37IU | 1% |
| Vitamin C | 1mg | 1% |
| Calcium | 338mg | 34% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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