Pasta doesn’t have to mean dry, packaged noodles that you smother with jarred sauce (which had been my concept of pasta since childhood). After a trip to Italy, my eyes were opened and I learned that pasta can also mean light, fresh, simple, and healthy (like this Pasta Primavera). Looking to recreate some of the magic I experienced abroad, I took it upon myself to add extra veggies to a package of store-bought tortellini to make a healthy and colorful Caprese pasta salad. This simple recipe takes just minutes to make and would fit in as a side dish as part of a summer cookout spread or served for a cozy date night at home with an Arugula Salad and glass of wine for a complete meal. It’s light, wholesome, and feels more healthy than heavy.
How to Make Caprese Pasta Salad
Easy storebought fresh tortellini pasta (also used in this Crockpot Tortellini Soup) lightly dressed in a zippy balsamic dressing with a simple blend of fresh ingredients, transforms this Caprese pasta salad into a complete, delicious meal.
The Ingredients
Cheese Tortellini. A package of my favorite store-bought cheese tortellini makes this recipe fast and fresh.Tomatoes. Like my favorite Chicken Pasta Salad, stud this easy Caprese pasta recipe with bright red jewels of sweetness loaded with antioxidants such as lycopene. (For a Caprese-style pizza, try this Burrata Pizza.)Mozzarella Pearls. For creaminess and cheesy goodness. Basil. Lends the pasta salad that classic Italian flavor. (Also a necessity for this Caprese Chicken Pasta.)Spinach. My addition that adds vitamin K, fiber, phosphorus, and thiamine to this simple Caprese pasta salad.Balsamic Dressing. Instead of a heavy sauce, I tossed the ingredients with a simple homemade tangy balsamic vinaigrette. (If you love balsamic, you’ll also love this easy Crockpot Italian Chicken.)
The Directions
Storage Tips
To Store. Place leftovers in an airtight storage container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
With a combination of timeless ingredients and an ultra-easy preparation, this is one pasta dish that will become a fast family favorite.
