Tortellini Caprese Salad with Spice Witch Chili Crisp.

Fresh and bright in a bowl! This Tortellini Caprese Salad takes everything you love about a classic caprese (fresh mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil) and turns it into a hearty pasta salad with a spicy Spice Witch twist. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light dinner on the porch.

INGREDIENTS

Salad:

• 1 package (20 oz) cheese tortellini
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup pesto
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese balls (halved)
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved)
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons Spice Witch Chili Oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Topping:

• 2 tablespoons Spice Witch Chili Crisp

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Cook the tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
2. Prepare the salad base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, pesto, and minced garlic. Mix until the tortellini are well coated.
3. Assemble the salad: Gently fold in the halved mozzarella cheese balls and cherry tomatoes.
4. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the Spice Witch Chili Oil, salt, and pepper.
5. Dress the salad: Pour the dressing over the tortellini salad and gently toss to combine.
6. Garnish and serve: Transfer the salad to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
7. Top with chili crisp: Just before serving, top the salad with Spice Witch Chili Crisp for an added kick and crunch.
8. Enjoy: Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

This flavorful Tortellini Caprese Salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for your next gathering. Enjoy!

Frequently asked questions

What goes into the tortellini caprese salad?

The salad uses a 20 oz package of cheese tortellini, ricotta, Parmesan, pesto, minced garlic, halved fresh mozzarella balls, halved cherry tomatoes and fresh basil, dressed with Spice Witch Chili Oil.

When do I add the Chili Crisp?

Add the Chili Crisp just before serving so it keeps its crunch. The recipe uses 2 tablespoons as a topping.

Can I make it ahead?

You can serve it right away, or refrigerate it for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

How do I dress the salad?

Whisk 3 tablespoons of Spice Witch Chili Oil with salt and pepper, then pour it over the tortellini mixture and gently toss.

More ways to use it: Checkerboard Caprese with Chili Crisp and What to Put Chili Crisp On