This Caprese Tortellini Salad with Burrata is a fresh, summery twist on the Italian classic. It layers cheesy tortellini, sweet cherry tomatoes, peppery arugula, and creamy burrata, all tossed in a tangy balsamic honey dressing and finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. A simple but elevated pasta salad perfect for summer.
Why You'll Love this Caprese Tortellini Salad:
- Fresh & Comforting – A perfect balance of juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, creamy burrata, and cheesy tortellini.
- Quick & Easy – Comes together in under 30 minutes with just a few simple steps.
- Bold Flavor – A sweet, tangy balsamic honey vinaigrette ties it all together.
- Versatile – Easy to customize with pesto, grilled chicken, or your favorite greens.
Jump to:
Key Ingredients:
- Cheese Tortellini – Tender, cheesy pasta that makes this salad hearty and filling. Cook, cool, and you're good to go.
- Cherry Tomatoes – Sweet, juicy, and bursting with flavor.
- Arugula – Adds a peppery bite and fresh contrast to the rich cheese.
- Burrata – Ultra-creamy and indulgent. Tear it open and let it melt into the salad.
- Fresh Basil – Classic caprese flavor, and peppery herbiness.
- Balsamic Honey Dressing – A simple homemade vinaigrette made with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, and garlic.
- Balsamic Glaze – A finishing drizzle of sweet tang.
Dietary & Allergy-Friendly Swaps:
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortellini (such as Taste Republic) and double-check any pre-packaged ingredients.
- Dairy-Free: Swap cheese tortellini for a dairy free version and omit burrata.
- Vegetarian: Naturally vegetarian, just double check tortellini ingredients if needed.
- Vegan: Use vegan tortellini, skip burrata, and sub honey with maple or agave.
- Low Carb/Keto: Replace tortellini with grilled zucchini, roasted cauliflower.
- Low FODMAP: Use gluten-free, lactose-free products and omit the minced garlic.
Recipe Variations:
- Add Pesto: Stir in a spoonful for extra herby/garlicky richness.
- Swap the Greens: Try baby spinach or mixed greens instead of arugula.
- Try Mozzarella: Use fresh mozzarella balls if burrata isn’t available.
- Grilled Veggies: Add grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant for a heartier summer salad.
- Make it Spicy: Add chili flakes or a drizzle of hot honey.
How to Make Caprese Tortellini Salad with Burrata & Balsamic Honey Dressing:
- Cook the Tortellini: Boil tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
- Toss the Salad: In a large bowl, combine cooled tortellini, halved cherry tomatoes, arugula, and half of the sliced basil.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Dress & Toss: Pour dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
- Finish & Serve: Transfer to a serving dish. Top with torn burrata, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, a touch of olive oil, remaining basil, and freshly cracked pepper.
Tips for Success:
- Cook tortellini al dente to avoid a mushy salad.
- Cool tortellini completely before tossing to keep the salad fresh and prevent wilting.
- Adjust honey and balsamic to taste for your preferred balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Add the arugula just before serving to keep presentation neat and prevent sogginess.
Make Ahead & Storage:
- Make ahead: Prepare tortellini, dressing, and chop veggies up to 24 hours in advance. Store separately in airtight containers.
- Assemble just before serving to keep burrata fresh and arugula crisp.
- Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 2 days. Burrata may weep; stir gently before serving.
- Avoid freezing as fresh ingredients and cheese won’t hold texture well.
What to Serve with Caprese Tortellini Salad:
Pair this vibrant salad with light summery dishes and/or a crisp white wine for a perfectly balanced meal:
- Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta Dressing
- Italian Salsa Verde Marinated Fresh Mozzarella
- Tomates Farcies (Sausage & Herb Stuffed Tomatoes)
FAQs:
What is the best way to pronounce Caprese?
It’s pronounced “kah-PRAY-zay,” named after the Italian island of Capri.
Can I use store-bought pesto instead of basil?
Yes! Pesto adds a lovely herby richness. Toss a spoonful in with the dressing or drizzle on top.
What dressing goes on a classic Caprese salad?
Traditionally, it’s just olive oil and balsamic vinegar, but this recipe’s balsamic honey dressing adds a sweet and tangy twist.
What are the three cheeses in tortellini?
Cheese tortellini often contains ricotta, parmesan, and mozzarella, but check your package as it varies.
What are common mistakes to avoid when making pasta salad?
Avoid overdressing the salad, which can make it soggy. Also, rinse cooked pasta with cold water to cool it quickly and stop cooking.
More Pasta Salad Recipes You Will Love:
- Tuscan Tortellini Pesto Pasta Salad
- Mediterranean Pasta & Kale Salad with Garlic Basil Dressing
- Portillo’s Chopped Salad (The Best Copycat Recipe)
Recipe
Caprese Tortellini Salad with Burrata & Balsamic Honey Dressing
A fresh, vibrant pasta salad featuring cheese tortellini, peppery arugula, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy burrata, and a sweet-tangy balsamic honey dressing. Perfect for easy lunches or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 18 oz cheese tortellini cooked and cooled
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
- 1-2 cups arugula
- 1 ball burrata cheese torn or split on top
- ¼ cup fresh basil thinly sliced (half for salad, half for garnish)
Balsamic Honey Dressing:
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- Salt & freshly cracked black pepper to taste
To Finish:
- Balsamic glaze
- Extra virgin olive oil optional
- Fresh cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Cook tortellini according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool; set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled tortellini, cherry tomatoes, arugula, and half the sliced basil.
- Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Transfer salad to a serving platter or bowl. Tear burrata over the top.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze and a little extra olive oil over the salad.
- Garnish with remaining basil and fresh cracked black pepper. Serve immediately.
Notes
- To keep arugula fresh and crisp, add it just before serving if preparing ahead.
- To make gluten-free, use gluten-free tortellini or substitute with gluten-free pasta.
- Nutritional Information is an estimate only and will vary according to ingredients and amounts used.
Nutrition
Calories: 391kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 16gFat: 26gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 37mgSodium: 481mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4g
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Must Love Garlic says
I love this one for summery get togethers and dinner parties!