Tortellini Caprese Bites with Basil Vinaigrette

I could probably revolve my entire blog on different caprese recipes. I could happily eat tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil at any time in just about any way possible. Does anyone else feel this way? Most people seem to like tomatoes and mozzarella together so when I went to my friend’s house for a cookout and pool party this past weekend, I decided to bring Tortellini Caprese Bites with Basil Vinaigrette.

Simple cheese tortellini is cooked and cooled, skewered with grape tomatoes and mozzarella balls and bathed in a vinaigrette of basil, olive oil and white balsamic vinegar. Never had white balsamic vinegar? Neither had I. In fact, I didn’t even know it existed. I’m now in love with it. This little appetizer was a big hit and there was nary a skewer left at the end of the hot, sunny day. I used refrigerated whole-wheat cheese tortellini (only because the store was out of regular cheese tortellini) but I believe any flavor would be delicious (such as cheese & prosciutto or cheese & spinach). This simple vinaigrette is a good one to remember for vegetables, salads or pasta as well. Consider taking these vibrant and visually appealing appetizers to your next get-together. They are sure to be a hit.

If you like this, also check out Cherry Tomato Bites.

The ingredients:

Prepare tortellini according to package directions and cool under cold water. Cut grape tomatoes in half and drain mozzarella balls from the water it comes in. On each skewer, thread 1 tomato half, 1 mozzarella cheese ball, another tomato half, and 1 tortellini. Place the skewers in a 13 x 9-inch baking dish.