Name: Tortellini Caprese Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 20 oz cheese tortellini; 10 oz cherry tomatoes, halved; 8 oz mozzarella pearls; 1 cup chopped spinach; 1/4 cup chopped basil; 1/2 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 3-4 garlic cloves, minced; 3/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; Balsamic glaze, optional

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Fresh, vibrant, and packed with bold flavor, Tortellini Caprese Salad is the ultimate warm-weather dish. This recipe combines tender cheese tortellini with juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a rich balsamic glaze for a satisfying twist on a classic. Whether you need a quick pasta salad for a backyard gathering or a flavorful summer side, this dish comes together in minutes and tastes even better after chilling. It works beautifully as picnic food, yet it feels hearty enough to serve as a full meal thanks to the cheesy tortellini.

Story

Every summer, I look for recipes that feel fresh but still satisfy. Classic Caprese salad always hits the spot with its tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella. However, I wanted something more filling, something that could double as both a side and a main dish. That is where Tortellini Caprese Salad became a staple in my kitchen.

The first time I made Tortellini Caprese Salad, I needed something quick for a last-minute cookout. I had cheese tortellini in the fridge, fresh basil on the counter, and a container of cherry tomatoes ready to use. I tossed everything together with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then finished it with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The result was bright, satisfying, and incredibly simple.

Since then, Tortellini Caprese Salad has earned a permanent place in my rotation. It holds up well in the refrigerator, travels easily, and delivers the comforting texture of a vegetarian pasta dish without feeling heavy. Even better, it takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish.

Ingredients

20 oz cheese tortellini, uncooked (about 5 cups)
10 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
8 oz mozzarella pearls
1 cup chopped spinach
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
1/2 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
3–4 garlic cloves, minced
3/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Balsamic glaze, optional for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about five minutes. While the tortellini cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes, chop the spinach and basil, and mince the garlic cloves.

Once the tortellini reaches al dente, drain it immediately. Rinse it briefly under cool water to stop the cooking process and cool it slightly. Let it drain well so excess water does not dilute the dressing.

Cooking Instructions

Transfer the cooled tortellini to a large mixing bowl. Add the chopped spinach, halved tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, basil, and minced garlic. Pour the olive oil and balsamic vinegar evenly over the mixture. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.

Toss everything thoroughly so the dressing coats each piece of tortellini. Make sure the spinach wilts slightly and distributes evenly throughout the salad. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.

Before serving, toss the salad again to redistribute the olive oil that may settle at the bottom. If needed, add a small splash of olive oil to refresh the texture. Finish with a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze just before serving.

Tips for Perfect Results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not overcook the tortellini. Soft, overcooked pasta will fall apart once tossed with the other ingredients. Always cook just until al dente.

Avoid skipping the rinse step. While most hot pasta dishes benefit from starchy water, this chilled salad requires cooling to prevent the spinach from wilting too much and the mozzarella from softening excessively.

Also, do not under-season. Since this recipe contains several mild ingredients, proper salt and pepper balance make a noticeable difference.

Pro Tips for Better Flavor

Use high-quality olive oil. Because the dressing contains simple ingredients, the olive oil flavor shines through.

Let the salad chill before serving. Even 20 minutes in the refrigerator deepens the flavor and allows the garlic and Italian seasoning to blend beautifully.

For extra brightness, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. You can also toss in a handful of arugula for a peppery twist.

Serving and Storage

How to Serve

Serve Tortellini Caprese Salad chilled or slightly cool. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, steak, or seafood. You can also serve it alongside burgers at a cookout or pack it for a picnic.

Because it contains protein-rich cheese tortellini and mozzarella, this salad stands on its own as a light lunch. Garnish with additional fresh basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for presentation.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Before serving again, toss thoroughly and add a splash of olive oil if needed to revive the texture.

Do not freeze this salad, as the texture of the tortellini and mozzarella will change once thawed.

Conclusion

Tortellini Caprese Salad delivers everything you want in a warm-weather dish. It blends fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, creamy mozzarella, and tender pasta into one satisfying bowl. Whether you prepare it as a quick weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing side, or convenient picnic food, this recipe offers bright flavor with minimal effort. Once you try it, you will find yourself making it again and again.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Tortellini Caprese Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Tortellini Caprese Salad several hours in advance. In fact, chilling it enhances the flavor. Just wait to add the balsamic glaze until right before serving for the best presentation.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas blend well with the existing flavors without overpowering the classic Caprese elements.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this Tortellini Caprese Salad is a vegetarian pasta dish as long as the tortellini and mozzarella contain no animal rennet. Always check labels if strict vegetarian guidelines apply.