Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad

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 dish is bright, flavorful, and super easy to make, making it perfect for picnics, potlucks, or any gathering. With a delightful balance of sweetness and savory notes, everyone will be begging for seconds!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Main Ingredients
• Dressing Ingredients
• How to Make Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Cook the Prosciutto
• Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients
• Step 4: Prepare the Dressing
• Step 5: Assemble the Salad
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad
• As a Standalone Dish
• Pair with Grilled Meats
• Add Fresh Greens
• As a Potluck Favorite
• How to Perfect Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad
• Best Side Dishes for Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad
• Reheating Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I make Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad ahead of time?
• What variations can I try with Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad?
• Is Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad suitable for meal prep?
• How do I make this salad vegetarian-friendly?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe takes only 40 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of hot honey, fresh peaches, and crispy prosciutto creates a unique taste that stands out in any meal.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a side or main course, this pasta salad fits well in various dining settings—from summer barbecues to cozy family dinners.
• Meal Prep Friendly: You can make this salad ahead of time and store it in the fridge. It tastes even better after the flavors meld together!
• Colorful Presentation: With vibrant ingredients like cherry tomatoes and basil, this dish is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad, you’ll need some essential tools to streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for cooking prosciutto until crispy without sticking.
• Large mixing bowl: Allows ample space for tossing all ingredients together without making a mess.

Ingredients

Main 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

Dressing Ingredients

• 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

How to Make Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Cook the Prosciutto

• Spread the prosciutto on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
• Bake for 10-15 minutes or until crispy. Once done, set aside to cool.

Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
* Add the cooked tortellini.
* Toss in pearl mozzarella balls, corn kernels, diced peaches, sliced cherry tomatoes, and chopped basil.

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing

In a glass measuring cup:
* Combine all dressing ingredients in the order listed.
* Whisk together until well mixed.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

Add the chopped crispy prosciutto to the tortellini mixture. Pour the dressing over everything and toss gently until well combined and evenly coated.

Step 6: Serve

You can serve your Hot Honey Tortellini 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 served in various ways. Whether you are hosting a barbecue, a picnic, or just enjoying a meal at home, this dish is sure to impress. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Standalone Dish

• Enjoy it chilled: This pasta salad can be served cold, making it perfect for hot summer days.
• Room temperature delight: Let the flavors meld by allowing it to sit at room temperature before serving.

Pair with Grilled Meats

• Chicken skewers: Juicy grilled chicken pairs well with the sweet and spicy notes of the salad.
• BBQ ribs: The richness of BBQ ribs contrasts beautifully with the lightness of the pasta salad.

Add Fresh Greens

• Spinach bed: Serve the tortellini salad over a bed of fresh spinach for added texture and color.
• Mixed greens: Toss in mixed greens for a crunchy complement to the pasta.

As a Potluck Favorite

• Easy to transport: This dish travels well, making it an excellent choice for potlucks or gatherings.
• Serve in individual cups: For convenience, serve portions in cups for easy sharing.

How to Perfect Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad

To elevate your Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad, follow these simple tips that will enhance both flavor and presentation.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh produce like peaches and basil make a significant difference in flavor.
• Adjust spice level: Customize the heat by varying the amount of hot honey according to your preference.
• Make ahead: Prepare the salad a few hours in advance to allow flavors to develop fully.
• Experiment with additions: Consider adding nuts or seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad

When planning your meal, consider pairing Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad with these delicious side dishes. Each option complements the flavors while enhancing your overall dining experience.

1. Grilled Vegetables: A mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus grilled for smoky flavor.
2. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction for a refreshing bite.
3. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread adds a satisfying crunch alongside the creamy pasta salad.
4. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad balances out the richness of the tortellini with sweet, juicy fruits.
5. Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges offer hearty satisfaction that pairs well with this pasta dish.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings a nice contrast to the sweetness of hot honey in the salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad, avoid common mistakes that can affect its taste and texture.

• Skipping the prosciutto crisping: Not cooking the prosciutto until crispy can result in a chewy texture. Make sure to bake it at 400F until it’s golden and crunchy.
• Overcooking the tortellini: Cooking tortellini for too long can lead to mushy pasta. Follow the package instructions closely for al dente results.
• Neglecting freshness: Using stale or old ingredients diminishes flavor. Always opt for fresh produce and quality cheese to enhance your salad.
• Ignoring dressing proportions: Adding too much or too little dressing can alter the dish’s balance. Measure ingredients carefully for the perfect mix of flavors.
• Serving too warm: Serving this salad hot can cause the ingredients to wilt. Allow it to cool before serving for a fresher taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to freeze it, store in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 1 month, but some ingredients may lose texture.

Reheating Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350F and reheat in a covered dish for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warmed through, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of olive oil and gently heat on low until warm, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad.

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

Yes, you can prepare this salad a few hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until serving.

What variations can I try with Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad?

Feel free to customize by adding different vegetables such as bell peppers or cucumbers, or swap out mozzarella with feta cheese.

Is Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and makes a great choice for meal prep. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.

How do I make this salad vegetarian-friendly?

To make it vegetarian, simply omit the prosciutto or substitute it with roasted chickpeas or nuts for added protein.

Final Thoughts

Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad is not just flavorful but also versatile and easy to customize. You can mix in your favorite seasonal fruits or vegetables to change things up. Be sure to try this delicious recipe at your next gathering; everyone will love it!