Name: Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad That's Perfect for Summer!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 9 ounces Tortellini (Use gluten-free tortellini for a gluten-free option.); 4 slices Prosciutto (Can swap it for crispy bacon or omit for vegetarian.); 8 ounces Mozzarella Balls (Fresh burrata can elevate the dish.); 1 cup Corn Kernels (Frozen or canned corn work.); 2 medium Peaches (Nectarines can be a substitute.); 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (Halved grape tomatoes can work.); 1 cup Basil (Parsley or mint can be used for a twist.); 1/4 cup Olive Oil (Any quality vegetable oil can be used.); 2 tablespoons Hot Honey (Regular honey with chili flakes can be used.); 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard (Yellow mustard can be swapped or omitted.); 2 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar (Apple cider vinegar is a good alternative.); 1 clove Garlic (Use garlic powder as a substitute if needed.); 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Pepper

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As I tossed together the ingredients for this dish, the kitchen filled with a sweet and spicy aroma that promised excitement. This Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad is a delightful mix of crispy prosciutto, creamy mozzarella, and juicy peaches, perfectly balancing sweet and savory in every bite. Not only does it come together in less than 30 minutes, but it also makes for a vibrant side dish or a tantalizing meal prep option that will brighten any summer table. Imagine serving this colorful salad at your next barbecue, where friends and family marvel at how something so fresh and scrumptious can be so simple to whip up. Ready to dive into this deliciousness and tantalize your taste buds? Let’s get started!

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What makes this salad irresistible?

Vibrant and fresh, this Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad celebrates seasonal ingredients like juicy peaches and crispy prosciutto. Quick to prepare, it’s done in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. Versatile and adaptable, you can swap out ingredients to suit your preferences, such as using quinoa instead of tortellini for a lighter option. Crowd-pleasing and colorful, it’s a showstopper at summer barbecues that everyone will love. If you enjoy this flavor combination, consider pairing it with a refreshing Honey Pepper Chicken for a complete meal!

Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need for a delicious dish!

For the Pasta Salad

Tortellini – This is your hearty base; feel free to use gluten-free tortellini for a gluten-free option.
Prosciutto – Adds a delightful crunch; you can swap it for crispy bacon or leave it out for a vegetarian version.
Mozzarella Balls – They provide a creamy contrast; fresh burrata can elevate the dish even further.
Corn Kernels – Bestow sweetness and crunch; frozen or canned corn works perfectly in place of fresh.
Peaches – Bring a juicy freshness; nectarines can be a delicious substitute.
Cherry Tomatoes – Add acidity and color; halved grape tomatoes can work just as well.
Basil – Bring aromatic freshness; parsley or mint can offer a nice twist in flavor.

For the Dressing

Olive Oil – Acts as the base for your dressing; any quality vegetable oil can replace it.
Hot Honey – Infuses sweet heat into the dish; regular honey may be used with chili flakes added for spice.
Dijon Mustard – Provides a lovely tang; yellow mustard can be swapped or omitted if desired.
Red Wine Vinegar – Adds necessary acidity; apple cider vinegar is a great alternative.
Garlic – Deepens the flavor; garlic powder can substitute if fresh isn’t on hand.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for flavor enhancement throughout the salad.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes for easier cleanup after baking. Once the oven reaches the desired temperature, you’ll be ready to crisp up the prosciutto.

Step 2: Bake the Prosciutto
Arrange the prosciutto slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Pop them into the preheated oven and bake for about 10 to 15 minutes or until they become golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning, and once done, set the crispy prosciutto aside to cool slightly before chopping.

Step 3: Prepare the Pasta
While the prosciutto cools down, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package directions until they are tender and al dente, usually around 2 to 4 minutes. Once cooked, drain and rinse the tortellini under cold water to stop the cooking process and set aside in a large mixing bowl.

Step 4: Combine the Fresh Ingredients
In the bowl with the cooled tortellini, toss in the mozzarella balls, corn kernels, diced peaches, sliced cherry tomatoes, and chopped basil. Mix gently to ensure an even distribution of ingredients throughout the Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad. The vibrant colors will start to shine, setting the scene for a beautiful dish.

Step 5: Chop the Prosciutto
Take your cooled prosciutto and chop it into small, bite-sized pieces. This will ensure you get that salty crunch with every bite. Gently fold the chopped prosciutto into the tortellini mixture, blending flavors and textures perfectly together in your fresh salad.

Step 6: Whisk the Dressing
In a measuring cup, whisk together the olive oil, hot honey, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. The dressing should be smooth and slightly thick. This flavorful blend will elevate your Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad with a sweet and spicy kick.

Step 7: Dress the Salad
Pour your freshly whisked dressing over the tortellini salad mixture. Using a large spoon, toss everything together until the pasta and ingredients are thoroughly coated with the dressing. Make sure every bite will carry that delightful flavor profile, mixing sweet, spicy, and savory elements perfectly.

Step 8: Serve or Chill
Now that your Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad is ready, you can serve it right away or chill it for an hour in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld together beautifully. It can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, making it a versatile dish for any gathering or meal prep.

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Expert Tips for Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad

Chill for Flavor: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This lets the flavors blend beautifully, ensuring a deliciously cool dish.
Mix Well: Make sure to whisk the dressing thoroughly before adding it to the salad. This prevents separation and guarantees even coverage of your Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad.
Crispy Prosciutto: Keep an eye on the prosciutto while baking; it can quickly go from crispy to burnt. Perfectly toasted prosciutto adds that delightful crunch.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh seasonal fruits and veggies for the best flavor! Swap peaches for nectarines or add halved strawberries for a twist.
Storage Savvy: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Give the salad a gentle toss before serving to refresh the flavors.

Make Ahead Options

These Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the tortellini and bake the prosciutto up to 24 hours in advance, then store them in airtight containers in the fridge. Additionally, you can chop the fresh vegetables (peaches, cherry tomatoes, and basil) up to 3 days ahead of time, just be sure to keep them refrigerated to maintain their texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply mix the prepped ingredients, whisk the dressing, and toss everything together. This prep strategy not only saves you time on busy evenings but keeps the salad just as delicious and vibrant for your gatherings!

Storage Tips for Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad

Fridge: Store your Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This keeps it fresh and prevents moisture buildup.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the salad without the dressing for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating: If you prefer to have it warm, gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking. Enjoy the fresh flavors!

Mix Before Serving: When ready to eat, give the salad a gentle toss to recoat everything with the dressing that may have settled during storage.

Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine while making this dish, exploring flavors and textures that delight your palate.

Gluten-Free: Substitute traditional tortellini with gluten-free pasta for an equally satisfying dish without gluten.
Vegetarian Delight: Omit the prosciutto and replace it with roasted chickpeas or nuts for extra crunch and protein.
Creamy Twist: Use creamy burrata instead of mozzarella balls for a richer, velvety texture. It elevates the dish wonderfully!
Fruit Upgrades: Swap peaches for seasonal fruits, such as strawberries or even oranges, to bring a zesty surprise to your salad.
Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs, such as cilantro or dill, offering a unique taste to the classic basil profile.
Additional Heat: If you crave more spice, boost the heat by adding sliced jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the dressing.
Add Crunch: For an exciting crunch, toss in some toasted almonds or sunflower seeds to contrast the creamy and juicy elements beautifully.
Carnivore’s Choice: Bring in some grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein-packed twist that transforms this salad into a delightful main course.

For a full meal, consider pairing your salad with a tasty option like Honey Garlic Meatball or maybe a refreshing Caramelized Onion Pasta. Dive in and enjoy these vibrant flavors!

What to Serve with Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad

Create a delightful meal experience around this vibrant salad that bursts with fresh flavors and textures.

Grilled Chicken: Juicy, smoky chicken elevates the dish, providing a hearty protein that pairs beautifully with the sweet and spicy salad. A drizzle of lime enhances the overall experience.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. Their caramelization complements the salad’s sweet notes while adding texture.
Crispy Garlic Bread: This comforting side adds crunch and flavor, soaking up any extra dressing from your pasta salad. The garlic richness creates a perfect contrast to the sweetness of the honey.
Light White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the salad’s flavor, making every sip refreshing against the sweet and savory elements of the dish.
Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes on skewers add a vibrant pop and bring Italian flavors to the table, beautifully harmonizing with the tortellini salad.
Peach Sorbet: End on a sweet note with a scoop of peach sorbet, offering a refreshing finish that complements the salad’s juicy peaches and celebrates summer.
Mixed Greens Salad: A light side salad with a zesty vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast and balances the rich flavors of the tortellini, creating a well-rounded meal.

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Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe peaches for the salad?
When selecting peaches, look for ones that are slightly soft to the touch and have a fragrant aroma. The skin should be smooth and free of dark spots. If they’re too firm, let them sit at room temperature for a couple of days until they ripen to your liking.

What’s the best way to store leftover Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad?
Store your Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This helps maintain its freshness. Remember to give it a gentle toss before serving again to redistribute the flavors!

Can I freeze this salad for later?
Absolutely! To freeze the salad, omit the dressing and place the mixed salad ingredients in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and whip up a fresh batch of dressing to add before serving.

What if my dressing separates during storage?
If your dressing separates, don’t worry! Just give it a good whisk or shake in a jar before pouring it over the salad. This will re-emulsify the ingredients and bring back that tasty, creamy texture.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
While this Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad is nut-free, be cautious of allergies related to ingredients like garlic, mustard, or any substitutes you decide to use. Always double-check with guests about specific allergens before serving.

What can I do if I don’t have hot honey?
If you don’t have hot honey on hand, you can use regular honey and add a pinch of chili flakes for that spicy kick. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste to achieve your desired heat level!