This Tortellini Caprese Salad has become a favorite in our family. On a recent Sunday, we were having friends over for a late afternoon visit so I wanted something for us to have for dinner that doesn’t require a lot of hands-on time. This quick and easy fresh and delicious pasta salad fit the bill.

My oldest teen’s boyfriend stayed for dinner and to be honest I was a little worried it would be too green for him. Well, it even got his stamp of approval. He loved it! He said it was the most green stuff he had eaten in a week, but that it was really good. 🙂

A client has included it in her regular meal rotation and says it is one of her husband’s favorites.

It really is so super tasty and easy too! It also makes great leftovers. Hope it gets rave reviews at your house also!

Tortellini Caprese Salad

Ingredients

• 20 oz cheese tortellini, uncooked
• 10 oz. cherry tomatoes, rinsed and cut in half
• 1-2 c chopped baby spinach
• 1/4 c fresh basil, rinsed and chopped
• 8 oz. fresh Mozzarella pearls (find in the specialty cheeses at Publix)
• 1/3 c olive oil
• 2 T balsamic vinegar
• 2-3 teaspoons minced garlic 
• ¾ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt and pepper
• Balsamic glaze (optional, but sooo good!)

Instructions

• Cook tortellini according to instructions. Prep and chop all other ingredients and set aside.
• When tortellini is cooked al dente, strain the water and then rinse with cool water for a few seconds to cool it slightly. Add the tortellini to a medium to large bowl. Add in the spinach, tomatoes, basil, and fresh mozzarella. 
• Mix together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper. Stir well or shake together in a container with lid. Pour over the salad and toss well to combine.
• Chill until ready to serve. It’s better when it sits for a bit to let the flavors marry – about 30 minutes or so.
• When ready to serve, toss well to redistribute the olive oil that is on the bottom of the bowl.
• Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze just before serving or over individual servings. 
• Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Hope you enjoy it!