Tortelloni Caprese Salad

 In the September 2018 Costco Connection, there was a recipe for Tortelloni Caprese Salad. The recipe used six Kirkland items. However, I adapted the recipe using items from the grocery store, homemade things, and produce from the garden or CSA. 

The recipe is easy to make and the results are delicious! I ate this hot and cold, and both ways are excellent. There's a lot of flavor, especially from the fresh basil and the homemade pesto.

I'll be making this again while the cherry tomatoes and basil are prolific in the garden.

Ingredients

24 ounces cheese tortelloni

16 ounces grilled chicken breast strips (I didn't include these)

16 ounces fresh mozzarella, pre-sliced log

2-3 cups cherry tomatoes

1-2 cups basil pesto (I used a homemade recipe)

1/4 to 1/2 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano, grated

fresh basil for garnish

balsamic vinegar, to taste

Directions

Prepare the tortelloni according to package directions, drain and set aside. Cut the chicken strips and mozzarella into bite-size pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes, if large.

Place tortelloni, chicken, and tomatoes in a large bowl, toss with 1-2 cups of pesto, using enough pesto to thoroughly coat.

Allow pasta dish to cool a bit and toss in mozzarella cubes. Garnish with grated Parmigiano-Reggiano and fresh basil. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar before serving, if desired. 

Can be served warm, cold, or at room temperature. 

Makes 8-10 servings.