Easy Tortellini Caprese Pasta Salad with Balsamic Glaze
🎉 Introduction
This Easy Tortellini Caprese Pasta Salad with Balsamic Glaze is the perfect dish for a refreshing lunch or a light dinner. Combining the delightful flavors of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and tortellini, this salad is packed with vibrant ingredients and a sweet-tangy glaze that brings it all together. Ideal for summer picnics, potlucks, or simply a satisfying meal at home, it’s quick to prepare and sure to impress your family and friends!
🧰 Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Colander
- Mixing bowl
- Serving platter
- Whisk
🛒 Ingredients
- 16 oz cheese tortellini
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls, halved
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
👩🍳 Directions
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 3-5 minutes.
Step 2: Once cooked, drain the tortellini in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and torn basil leaves.
Step 4: In another small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic glaze, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 5: Add the cooled tortellini to the mixing bowl with the tomato, mozzarella, and basil mixture, and pour the dressing over the top.
Step 6: Gently toss everything together until the tortellini and vegetables are well coated with the dressing.
Step 7: Transfer the salad to a serving platter and drizzle additional balsamic glaze if desired before serving.
🍽️ Servings & Timing
Serves 4 | Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This salad is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating. If it sits too long, you may want to add a little more olive oil or balsamic glaze before serving again.
🥄 Variations
- Add grilled chicken for a protein boost.
- Substitute tortellini with your favorite pasta shape.
- Include chopped cucumbers or bell peppers for extra crunch.
- Use pesto instead of balsamic glaze for a different flavor.
- Make it vegan by using plant-based tortellini and mozzarella.
❓ FAQs
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
Q: Is this salad gluten-free?
A: You can make this salad gluten-free by using gluten-free tortellini or pasta.
Q: What can I use instead of balsamic glaze?
A: You can use balsamic vinegar, but balance it with a bit of honey or sugar for sweetness.
Q: Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
A: Fresh basil is recommended for the best flavor, but you can substitute with dried basil in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon.
Q: How can I add more protein to this salad?
A: You can add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even shrimp for additional protein.
Q: Can I use frozen tortellini?
A: Yes, frozen tortellini works well too. Just follow the package instructions for cooking times.
Q: What type of pasta can I use if I can’t find tortellini?
A: Any type of small pasta such as fusilli, penne, or even rotini would work well.
Q: Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
A: Absolutely! It’s a great option for meal prep as it keeps well in the fridge.
Q: Can I add more vegetables?
A: Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach, arugula, or zucchini.
Q: What sides pair well with this salad?
A: This salad pairs well with grilled meats, garlic bread, or can be served as a light main course.
🏁 Conclusion
This Easy Tortellini Caprese Pasta Salad with Balsamic Glaze is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or just enjoying it for lunch, its fresh flavors and simple preparation are sure to make it a favorite. Give it a try, and you’ll find that fresh ingredients combined harmoniously can create a dish that’s both satisfying and vibrant!
Easy Tortellini Caprese Pasta Salad with Balsamic Glaze
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 3-5 minutes.
- Once cooked, drain the tortellini in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and torn basil leaves.
- In another small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic glaze, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Add the cooled tortellini to the mixing bowl with the tomato, mozzarella, and basil mixture, and pour the dressing over the top.
- Gently toss everything together until the tortellini and vegetables are well coated with the dressing.
- Transfer the salad to a serving platter and drizzle additional balsamic glaze if desired before serving.
Notes
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This salad is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating. If it sits too long, you may want to add a little more olive oil or balsamic glaze before serving again. Variations:
- Add grilled chicken for a protein boost.
- Substitute tortellini with your favorite pasta shape.
- Include chopped cucumbers or bell peppers for extra crunch.
- Use pesto instead of balsamic glaze for a different flavor.
- Make it vegan by using plant-based tortellini and mozzarella.
