Pasta Salad Recipe for Summer

Caprese Tortellini Pasta Salad

Ingredients

• 1 9oz pkg of tri-color cheese tortellini
• 1 pkg of fresh mozzarella balls, in water (marinated or regular)
• 1 pint/pkg of grape or cherry tomatoes
• 1/2 cup italian dressing (see below for recipe)
• fresh basil leaves

Simple Italian dressing

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 1 tbsp Mrs Dash Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tbsp of garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp of salt

Whisk all ingredients together and allow to sit. Giving the dressing some time to mingle will not only infuse flavor into the oil/vinegar but also soften the dry herbs and seasoning. This dressing will keep in your fridge for about a week so make extra to drizzle over a week’s worth of salads. If you like balsamic, drizzle your favorite fruity balsamic dressing or glaze over this salad for an extra kick of flavor.

Directions:

Bring a medium pot of water to a boil.  Add your tortellini and reduce heat to gently cook the pasta to either tender or al-dente according to package directions.  Grab a noodle to taste-test and remove from heat.  Strain in a colander and run under cold water to halt the cooking process and prevent soggy noodles.  Transfer into a medium-large serving bowl along with mozzarella balls, tomatoes, and basil.  Pour in dressing and toss to coat.  Enjoy!

This recipe is originally from the Peas & Crayons blog. The original recipe can be found here.