Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad

This Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm hug on a plate. Imagine pasta nestled in a melody of fresh flavors, where each bite bursts with sweetness from juicy peaches and a hint of zest from tangy tomatoes. The combination of creamy mozzarella and crispy prosciutto creates a delightful contrast that you can’t resist. Plus, the drizzle of hot honey elevates everything to a new level of deliciousness, making it a standout at summer gatherings or cozy family dinners. And guess what? With just a bit of prep and a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a vibrant salad that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this dish will turn mealtime into an experience filled with warmth and flavor.

Why This Recipe Works

This Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad combines vibrant flavors and textures, transforming simple ingredients into a delightful dish. The warmth of the hot honey contrasts beautifully with the fresh vegetables and creamy mozzarella, while crispy prosciutto adds a savory crunch. Each bite promises a balance of sweet, savory, and tangy, making it a versatile addition to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad

This recipe not only offers a burst of exciting flavors but also celebrates the beauty of seasonal produce. The sweet peaches and juicy cherry tomatoes create a refreshing backdrop that is perfect for summer gatherings or cozy family dinners. With minimal prep time and stunning results, it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Salad

• 32 oz tortellini, cooked
• 4 oz prosciutto, crispy
• 8 oz pearl mozzarella balls
• 15 oz can corn kernels, drained
• 3 small peaches, diced into small chunks
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, sliced
• 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped

For the Dressing

• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/3 cup hot honey
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper

Preparing This Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad

Preheat the Oven for Prosciutto

First off, heat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step is crucial for making the prosciutto nice and crispy.

Crispy Prosciutto Creation

Spread the prosciutto in a flat layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until it’s crispy. Once it’s done, remove it from the oven and let it cool before chopping into small pieces.

Combine Key Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked tortellini, pearl mozzarella balls, drained corn, diced peaches, sliced cherry tomatoes, and chopped basil. The colors alone will make you smile as you prepare this dish!

Mix in the Prosciutto

Now, chop the cooled crispy prosciutto into smaller pieces and gently fold it into the tortellini mixture. This adds a wonderful crunch that you’ll love.

Prepare the Dressing

In a glass measuring cup, combine the dressing ingredients: extra virgin olive oil, hot honey, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well blended. This dressing is what ties the whole salad together!

Toss to Perfection

Pour the dressing over the tortellini mixture and gently toss until everything is well combined and coated. Take your time here; you want every bite to be full of flavor.

Serve and Enjoy

This Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad can be served at room temperature or chilled. Either way, you’re in for a burst of flavors that’s both satisfying and enjoyable!

Serving Suggestions

Pair this salad with grilled chicken, shrimp, or serve it alongside a crusty baguette for a complete meal. It also makes a great dish for potlucks or picnics where sharing is key; everyone will want to taste it!

Tips for Success

• Choosing Tortellini: Fresh tortellini is always the best choice for a delightful texture.
• Allow Flavors to Marry: For enhanced flavor, let the salad sit for about 30 minutes before serving.
• Crispy Prosciutto: Make sure your prosciutto is nice and crisp. That way, it retains its texture in the salad.

Variations

• If you need a gluten-free option, simply substitute the tortellini with a gluten-free type.
• Swap out the peaches for seasonal fruits like apples or apricots to create a new twist on flavors.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep the salad fresh, consider keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Pairing Ideas

This Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad pairs beautifully with a glass of Chardonnay or a refreshing sparkling water. If you want to complete the meal, serve it alongside a light arugula salad for a perfect balance.

FAQs

1. Can I make Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead. Just add the dressing right before serving to keep it fresh.

2. Is this salad vegetarian?
No, since it contains prosciutto. However, you can always omit it for a vegetarian option.

3. Can I use frozen tortellini?
Absolutely! Just cook according to package instructions and give it time to cool before mixing into the salad.

4. What other veggies can I add?
Feel free to mix in bell peppers, cucumbers, or even spinach for extra crunch and nutrition.

5. How spicy is the hot honey?
The spiciness can vary by brand, so adjust the amount based on your heat preference. Taste as you go!

This Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad is a flavorful celebration of summer! With its enticing combination of sweet and savory elements, it is perfect for any occasion, transforming your everyday meals into something extraordinary. Enjoy sharing this dish with friends and family, creating moments that bring everyone together around the table.

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