Ready to have the most popular dish at the barbecue? Dig into my hot honey tortellini pasta salad, made with crispy prosciutto, mozzarella, and fresh peaches. This vibrant dish combines sweet and savory flavors, making it perfect for picnics, potlucks, or family gatherings. With its easy preparation and delightful taste, this Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad is sure to impress your guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This pasta salad takes just 40 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick option for busy days.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of hot honey, crispy prosciutto, and fresh peaches creates a unique and delicious flavor profile.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for barbecues or as a main dish for lunch or dinner; it fits any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its colorful presentation and delightful taste will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep this salad in advance; it tastes even better after the flavors meld together!

Tools and Preparation

To make your hot honey tortellini pasta salad, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having these on hand will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Large mixing bowl
• Glass measuring cup
• Whisk
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Ensures even cooking of prosciutto while keeping it flat and crispy.
• Large mixing bowl: Perfect for combining all ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Helps blend dressing ingredients thoroughly for an even coating on the pasta.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 32oz tortellini, cooked
– 4oz prosciutto
– 8oz pearl mozzarella balls
– 15oz can corn kernels
– 3 small peaches, diced into small chunks
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, sliced
– 1/2 cup basil, chopped
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1/3 cup hot honey
– 1 tbsp dijon mustard
– 3 tbsp red apple vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

How to Make Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Cook Prosciutto

Place the prosciutto in a flat layer on the baking sheet. Bake for about 10 to 15 minutes until crispy. Once done, remove from oven and set aside to cool.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked tortellini, pearl mozzarella balls, corn kernels, diced peaches, cherry tomatoes, and chopped basil. Toss gently to combine.

Step 4: Prepare Dressing

In a glass measuring cup, combine the extra virgin olive oil, hot honey, dijon mustard, red apple vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.

Step 5: Mix Dressing with Salad

Pour the dressing over the tortellini mixture. Toss everything together until well coated.

Step 6: Serve

You can serve this pasta salad at room temperature or chilled. Enjoy!

How to Serve Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad

Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this pasta salad is sure to impress. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Main Course

• Serve it chilled for a refreshing meal on warm days.
• Pair with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.

At a Potluck

• Present it in a large bowl and garnish with extra basil for an attractive display.
• Offer it alongside paper plates and utensils for easy serving.

As a Side Dish

• Complement barbecued meats, such as ribs or burgers, for a balanced meal.
• Serve it next to other salads for a colorful buffet spread.

In Meal Prep Containers

• Divide into individual portions for easy grab-and-go lunches.
• Add a sprinkle of cheese on top before sealing for extra flavor.

With Extra Toppings

• Offer toppings like crushed red pepper flakes or additional hot honey for those who love spice.
• Provide sliced avocado or arugula on the side for added freshness.

How to Perfect Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad

To make your Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad even more delightful, keep these tips in mind. Simple adjustments can elevate the flavor and presentation of this dish.

• Use fresh ingredients – Opt for ripe peaches and vibrant herbs to enhance taste.
• Adjust sweetness levels – Modify the amount of hot honey based on your preference; add more if you like it sweeter.
• Chill before serving – Allow the salad to sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
• Experiment with cheese – Try adding feta or goat cheese instead of mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Add nuts – Incorporate toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added crunch and nutrition.
• Consider seasonal variations – Swap out peaches with other fruits like strawberries or mangoes depending on what’s in season.

Best Side Dishes for Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad

While Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad is delicious on its own, pairing it with complementary side dishes can create an appealing meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Grilled Vegetables – A mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus adds color and nutrients.
2. Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make an elegant appetizer.
3. Garlic Bread – Crunchy bread brushed with garlic butter pairs beautifully with pasta salads.
4. Fruit Salad – A light fruit medley balances the savory flavors of the pasta salad perfectly.
5. Coleslaw – A tangy slaw provides crunch and complements the sweetness of the hot honey dressing.
6. Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa offer hearty options alongside the salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad, it’s easy to overlook a few details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the salt: Not seasoning the pasta water can lead to bland tortellini. Always add salt to boiling water before cooking pasta to enhance its flavor.
• Overcooking the prosciutto: Cooking prosciutto too long can make it tough instead of crispy. Watch it closely and remove it from the oven as soon as it turns golden brown.
• Using unripe peaches: Unripe peaches can be hard and lack sweetness. Choose ripe, juicy peaches for the best taste in your salad.
• Not mixing properly: Failing to toss the ingredients well may leave some components without dressing. Mix thoroughly to ensure every bite is flavorful and coated.
• Serving too cold: Serving this salad straight from the fridge can dull its flavors. Allow it to sit at room temperature for a bit before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the salad separate from any dressing if you plan on storing leftovers.

Freezing Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad

• It is not recommended to freeze this dish as the texture of tortellini and fresh ingredients may suffer upon thawing.

Reheating Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the salad in an even layer on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place individual servings in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: In a pan over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil or water. Stir occasionally until heated, ensuring not to overcook.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad?

Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad is a vibrant dish made with cooked tortellini, crispy prosciutto, fresh peaches, mozzarella, and a sweet-spicy dressing featuring hot honey.

Can I make Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this salad a few hours ahead of time. Just remember to store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

What are some good substitutes for prosciutto?

If you want alternatives, consider bacon or pancetta. Both will provide similar crispiness and flavor when cooked.

How can I customize my Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad?

Feel free to add other ingredients like arugula, bell peppers, or different fruits based on your preferences. Adjust the level of hot honey for desired sweetness or spiciness.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad is perfect for meal prep as it keeps well in the fridge and makes for great lunches throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad is not just delicious; it’s also versatile and colorful, making it ideal for any occasion—from barbecues to potlucks. The combination of sweet peaches and spicy honey elevates this dish beyond standard pasta salads. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or dressings to make it truly yours!

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Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad

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• Author: Madison
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Indulge in the vibrant and flavorful Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad, an irresistible dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory. This delightful salad features al dente tortellini tossed with crispy prosciutto, creamy mozzarella, juicy peaches, and fresh cherry tomatoes, all brought together with a zesty hot honey dressing. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, attending a potluck, or simply looking for a refreshing lunch option, this pasta salad is sure to impress your guests. With its easy preparation and make-ahead convenience, you’ll enjoy every bite of this crowd-pleaser!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 32oz cooked tortellini
• 4oz prosciutto
• 8oz pearl mozzarella balls
• 15oz corn kernels (canned)
• 3 small ripe peaches, diced
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, sliced
• 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/3 cup hot honey
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 3 tbsp red apple vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Spread the prosciutto on the baking sheet in a single layer and bake for 10-15 minutes until crispy. Remove from the oven and let cool.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, mozzarella balls, corn kernels, diced peaches, cherry tomatoes, and chopped basil. Toss gently to mix.
4. In a glass measuring cup, whisk together the olive oil, hot honey, Dijon mustard, red apple vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
5. Pour the dressing over the tortellini mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
6. Serve at room temperature or chilled for maximum flavor.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: For more flavor variations, consider adding arugula or other seasonal fruits like strawberries or mangoes. If you prefer a creamier texture, substitute mozzarella with feta or goat cheese.