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–+ servings

Simple Tortellini Caprese Salad – Quick & Lovely

Rose
This Tortellini Caprese Salad is a fresh and colorful pasta salad made with tender cheese tortellini, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella pearls, and fragrant basil tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or an easy summer dinner, it’s light, satisfying, and full of classic Italian-inspired flavor.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • large pot for boiling tortellini
  • colander for draining pasta
  • large mixing bowl
  • small bowl for dressing
  • whisk

Ingredients
  

  • 16 ounces cheese tortellini
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • salt, to taste
  • freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • balsamic glaze (optional, for serving)

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process, then let cool completely.
  • While the tortellini cools, halve the cherry tomatoes and chop the fresh basil. In a large bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and chopped basil. Toss gently.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and slightly thickened.
  • Pour the vinaigrette over the tortellini mixture and gently toss until evenly coated, being careful not to break the tortellini.
  • Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
  • Before serving, gently toss again and adjust seasoning if needed. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired, and serve chilled.

Notes

Salt the pasta water well for the best flavor. Let the tortellini cool completely before mixing to prevent melting the mozzarella. Chill for at least 30 minutes for optimal taste. Add fresh basil just before serving if making ahead. Freezing is not recommended, as mozzarella and tomatoes can become watery when thawed.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 12gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 480mgPotassium: 220mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 180mgIron: 1.5mg
Keyword caprese pasta salad, easy summer pasta salad, mozzarella basil tortellini, tortellini caprese salad
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