Imagine a pasta salad that's not just another boring side dish, but a flavor explosion that will have your guests begging for the recipe! This Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad is the ultimate summer culinary sensation that combines the creamy comfort of cheese-filled tortellini with a tantalizing sweet and spicy kick. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is about to become your new obsession – trust us, one bite and you'll be hooked!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 9 oz tortellini
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup mozzarella balls
- 1/4 cup basil, chopped
- 2 tbsp hot honey
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 7-9 minutes.
- While the tortellini is cooking, prepare the other ingredients. Halve the cherry tomatoes, chop the fresh basil, and have the mozzarella balls ready.
- Once the tortellini is cooked, drain in a colander and immediately rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta down.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, halved cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls.
- In a small separate bowl, whisk together the hot honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the hot honey dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil over the top of the salad and give a final gentle mix.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing pasta salad.
Tips
- Cook the tortellini just until al dente to prevent a mushy texture. Immediately rinsing with cold water stops the cooking process and keeps the pasta firm.
- Use high-quality hot honey for the best flavor balance. The heat level can be adjusted to your preference.
- For extra flavor, consider toasting some pine nuts or adding some crispy prosciutto on top before serving.
- This salad tastes even better after sitting for a few hours, so it's perfect for make-ahead meals.
- If you can't find mozzarella balls, you can cube fresh mozzarella or use small cubed cheese of your choice.
- Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving – a little extra salt or pepper can make a big difference.
- For a vegetarian version, ensure you use vegetarian tortellini and skip any meat additions.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 349kcal
Carbohydrates: 53g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 30mg
