Imagine a dish that bursts with the freshness of summer, where tender tortellini dances with juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella. The aroma of basil wafts through the air, making your mouth water with anticipation. Cheese Tortellini Caesar Pasta Salad This Tortellini Caprese Salad isn’t just food; it’s a celebration in a bowl, perfect for sunny picnics or cozy family dinners.

This delightful salad brings back memories of warm evenings spent on my grandmother’s porch, where laughter and good food flowed freely. Each bite delivers a flavor explosion that reminds me why summer is my favorite season. Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash With its vibrant colors and tantalizing tastes, it’s an occasion in itself!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Tortellini Caprese Salad is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The fresh ingredients create a flavor profile that’s both bright and satisfying
- Its beautiful presentation will impress guests at any gathering
- This salad is versatile enough to serve as a main dish or a side, fitting perfectly into any meal plan
I once made this salad for a family reunion, and let’s just say, it disappeared faster than the last slice of pie at Thanksgiving!
Essential Ingredients
For more inspiration, check out this garlic parmesan smashed potatoes recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Tortellini: Use cheese-filled tortellini for a rich taste; homemade or store-bought works wonders.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes; they add sweetness and color to the salad.
- Fresh Mozzarella Balls: Opt for the small ones called bocconcini for easy popping in your mouth.
- Fresh Basil Leaves: Pick fragrant leaves to elevate the salad with their aromatic essence.
- Olive Oil: A high-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavors beautifully; drizzle generously.
- Balsamic Vinegar: A splash adds tanginess that balances the richness of mozzarella.
- Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings are key for bringing all flavors together harmoniously.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Tortellini: Bring a pot of salted water to boil over medium heat. Add tortellini and cook according to package instructions until they float to the top.
Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta cooks, halve cherry tomatoes and set them aside. Their sweetness enhances every bite you take.
Toss It All Together: Drain the cooked tortellini and let it cool slightly before tossing it in a large bowl with tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil.
Add Dressing: Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over your salad mixture. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste; don’t be shy—seasoning is everything!
Savor Your Creation: Serve immediately or let it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together delightfully.
Now you have a colorful plate of Tortellini Caprese Salad ready to impress! Enjoy every delightful bite as you celebrate life’s little moments with friends and family. Detox Rainbow Roll Ups Greek Salad with Dill Sauce.
You Must Know
- This Tortellini Caprese Salad is a showstopper that effortlessly combines fresh flavors
- The aromatic basil and creamy mozzarella create a culinary symphony perfect for any gathering
- Don’t forget the olive oil drizzle; it transforms every bite into a delicious experience!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling tortellini until al dente, then drain and cool while chopping tomatoes and basil. Mix everything together, and finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra zing.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different cheeses or add grilled chicken for protein. You can also experiment with a variety of vinegars to brighten up the flavors even more. For more inspiration, check out this grilled lamb chops recipe.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best results, enjoy cold straight from the fridge or let it come to room temperature before serving.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure the tortellini is cooked al dente; overcooked pasta becomes mushy in salads
- Use fresh ingredients for vibrant flavors and textures
- A sprinkle of sea salt enhances all the other flavors wonderfully!
When I first made this salad for my family, their eyes lit up like Christmas morning! The combination of flavors led to everyone asking for seconds, making me feel like a culinary rockstar.
FAQ
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, frozen tortellini works well; just follow package cooking instructions for best results.
How long does this salad last?
The Tortellini Caprese Salad lasts about three days when stored properly in the fridge.
What dressings pair well with this salad?
A simple balsamic vinaigrette or olive oil complements the fresh ingredients beautifully.

Tortellini Caprese Salad
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- Author: Mery Mack
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Experience the vibrant flavors of summer with this delightful Tortellini Caprese Salad. Tender tortellini mingle with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with rich olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Perfect for picnics or family gatherings, this salad is a celebration of fresh ingredients that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 8 oz fresh cheese tortellini
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the tortellini in salted boiling water according to package instructions until they float to the top. Drain and cool.
- While the tortellini cooks, prepare the cherry tomatoes by halving them.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil.
- Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss gently to combine. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for 30 minutes for enhanced flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 25mg