Ah, the summer joy of a fresh, vibrant salad! Let me tell you about my absolute favorite warm-weather dish—**Creamy Caprese Tortellini Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette**. This glorious concoction is like a love letter to all things Italian! Growing up, my grandma would whip up various salads bursting with flavor. Whenever she made something with tortellini, it felt like a special occasion, even on a regular Wednesday evening. There’s a little bit of nostalgia swirled into this wonderful dish, and I promise it’s one that you will fall in love with too!
What I adore about this recipe is how effortlessly it comes together. You’re pretty much tossing a bunch of scrumptious ingredients into a bowl and letting them do their magic. Plus, it’s fabulously versatile! Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, enjoying a picnic in the park, or just want something easy and delightful for dinner, this salad fits the bill. Let’s dive into the details!
What’s in Creamy Caprese Tortellini Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette?
Creamy Caprese Tortellini Salad is packed with delicious ingredients that not only taste amazing but also bring a pop of color to your plate. Here’s what you’ll need:
– **12 oz cheese tortellini:** This is the star of the show! I prefer fresh tortellini when I can find it, but dry tortellini works just as well.
– **1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved:** These little bursts of sweetness brighten up the dish. I like to use a mix of colors when possible—more fun, right?
– **1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, drained:** A Caprese salad wouldn’t be complete without mozzarella! It adds a delightful creaminess that makes every bite a joy.
– **1/4 red onion, thinly sliced:** Adds a nice bite and crunch. Honestly, if onions aren’t your thing, you can leave them out or swap in a milder option like green onions.
– **1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped:** Because who can resist the fresh fragrance of basil? It gives the salad a delightful aroma and a hint of sweetness.
– **1/2 cup mayonnaise:** The base of our creamy dressing—adds richness that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
– **1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt:** A healthier alternative to sour cream that gives that tangy flavor while lightening things up a bit!
– **2 tbsp balsamic vinegar:** The tangy-sweet balsamic helps to cut through the creaminess of everything else. Pure magic, I swear!
– **2 tbsp olive oil:** A drizzle of good-quality olive oil enhances the salad’s flavor—always opt for extra virgin if you can!
– **1 garlic clove, minced:** Because garlic makes everything better! It adds a savory punch that elevates the dressing.
– **Salt and pepper to taste:** Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
Is Creamy Caprese Tortellini Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette Good for You?
You might be wondering, “Is this flavorful dish actually healthy?” Well, let me break it down!
Tortellini: While pasta might get a bad rap, when it’s packed with cheese, it brings energy-boosting carbohydrates to the table.
Cherry tomatoes: They’re not just pretty to look at—these juicy gems are rich in vitamins A and C, plus they contain antioxidants.
Fresh mozzarella: This dairy delight contains calcium, which is great for bone health. Plus, the protein helps keep you satisfied.
Greek yogurt: It’s a powerhouse of protein and probiotics, making it a great choice for gut health.
While this salad has its share of indulgent ingredients, like mayonnaise, moderation is key! Enjoy it as part of a balanced meal, and you’ll be golden!
Ingredients
– 12 oz cheese tortellini
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, drained
– 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
*Serves: 6-8 people*
How to Make Creamy Caprese Tortellini Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette?
1. Start by cooking that delicious cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Once it’s al dente, drain it, and let it cool for a few minutes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, sliced red onion, and chopped basil—give it a little mix!
3. In another bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until it’s all smooth and luscious.
4. Pour this dreamy dressing over your tortellini salad and gently toss everything together until every little piece is well coated.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Don’t rush this part—getting the seasoning just right is key!
6. For the best flavor, pop the salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Let those ingredients get to know each other—it’s so worth it!
7. When you’re ready to serve, dish it up chilled, and feel free to sprinkle some extra basil on top for presentation!
Creative Twists and Serving Suggestions
Here’s a little tip from my kitchen: This salad is like a canvas—feel free to get creative! You can toss in other veggies like bell peppers, or even add sliced cucumbers for a refreshing crunch. Another fun twist is adding grilled chicken or shrimp for some protein!
As for serving, this salad is perfect as a potluck contribution or as a side alongside grilled meats. You can enjoy it fresh or store it in the fridge for up to two days. Just beware, it may not last that long!
I invite you to try making this **Creamy Caprese Tortellini Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette** yourself! I promise it’ll be a hit at your next gathering, and who knows, it might evoke some delicious family memories of your own. Can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Happy cooking!
