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Pasta salads are a quintessential dish that effortlessly adapts to a myriad of occasions, whether you're planning a casual picnic, a lively barbecue, or a comforting weeknight dinner with family. Among the myriad of pasta salad recipes that grace our tables, the Spicy-Sweet Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad stands out for its unique flavor profile and vibrant presentation. This salad combines the soothing essence of cheese tortellini with a delightful kick from hot honey, resulting in a dish that strikes a perfect balance between sweetness and heat.

Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad

Discover the perfect blend of flavors with Spicy-Sweet Hot Honey Tortellini Pasta Salad, an irresistible dish that combines creamy cheese tortellini with the delightful heat of hot honey. Toss in colorful veggies like cherry tomatoes and bell peppers, then dress it with a tangy olive oil and red wine vinegar mix. This pasta salad is not only easy to prepare, but also a crowd-pleaser for picnics, barbecues, or family dinners. Enjoy a delicious and lively meal!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz fresh or frozen cheese tortellini

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced

½ red onion, finely chopped

½ cup fresh basil leaves, torn

½ cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved

¼ cup olive oil

¼ cup hot honey (you can either buy it or make your own by infusing honey with crushed red pepper flakes)

2 tbsp red wine vinegar

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: Crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat

Instructions
 

Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

    Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, hot honey, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.

      Chop the Veggies: While the pasta is cooling, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Add these to a large mixing bowl.

        Combine Ingredients: Once the tortellini is cool, add it to the mixing bowl with the veggies. Toss in the fresh basil and mozzarella balls, and gently combine all the ingredients.

          Dress the Salad: Pour the hot honey dressing over the tortellini salad and toss gently to ensure everything is well coated. Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes if you like it extra spicy.

            Chill and Serve: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

              Final Touch: Just before serving, give it a good stir and taste for seasoning. Adjust the salt, pepper, or hot honey if needed.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 45 min | 4-6 servings