An elegant appetizer that combines cheese-filled tortellini with the vibrant flavours of a classic Caprese salad, all threaded onto skewers for effortless presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Visually striking with red tomatoes, green basil and white mozzarella creating a festive colour palette.
Ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
Can be assembled ahead of time and chilled until serving.
Familiar Caprese flavours enhanced by tender pasta, pleasing guests of all ages.
Easily customised to suit dietary preferences or to introduce new flavour twists.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cheese tortellini, cooked and cooled
Cherry or grape tomatoes
Mini mozzarella balls (ciliegine)
Fresh basil leaves
Balsamic reduction or glaze
Coarse sea salt

Directions

Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
Rinse and pat dry the tomatoes and basil leaves. Drain the mozzarella balls.
Thread each skewer in the following order: tomato, folded basil leaf, mozzarella ball, tortellini, basil leaf, tomato.
Arrange the skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle with balsamic reduction and sprinkle with coarse sea salt. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until needed.

Servings and Timing

Yield: approximately 24 skewers
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Replace the balsamic glaze with a drizzle of basil pesto for an herbaceous finish.
Add a strip of prosciutto to each skewer for a savory contrast.
Use herbed bocconcini or marinated mozzarella for extra flavour.
Incorporate cubes of yellow pepper or peach for additional colour and sweetness.
Substitute gluten-free tortellini to make the recipe gluten-free.
Use plant-based tortellini and vegan mozzarella to create a dairy-free version.

Storage / Reheating

Store assembled skewers in a single layer in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Avoid freezing, as both the mozzarella and pasta will lose their desirable texture after thawing.
Serve chilled, or allow skewers to stand at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving. If a warm serving is preferred, gently reheat the tortellini before assembling the skewers.

FAQs

Can I boil the tortellini a day ahead?

Yes. After cooking, rinse the tortellini under cold water, toss with a little oil, and refrigerate. Assemble the skewers within 24 hours for best texture.

What size skewers work best?

Six-inch (15 cm) bamboo or wooden cocktail picks are ideal, as they hold two tomatoes, one mozzarella ball and one tortellini each without overcrowding.

Must I make my own balsamic reduction?

No. A store-bought balsamic glaze is convenient and consistent, though a homemade reduction made by simmering balsamic vinegar until it thickens will impart a fresher taste.

How do I prevent basil from wilting?

Ensure the basil leaves are completely dry before assembling. Position them between other ingredients on the skewer to reduce direct exposure to air.

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes. Boil frozen tortellini directly, adding one to two extra minutes to the cooking time. Rinse and cool before threading onto skewers.

Is it safe to leave the skewers at room temperature?

For food safety, limit the display time to two hours at room temperature (or one hour if ambient temperatures exceed 32 °C). Return any leftovers to refrigeration promptly.

Which tortellini filling works best here?

Cheese or spinach-ricotta fillings pair beautifully with Caprese flavours without overwhelming the tomato and basil.

Could I swap mozzarella for another cheese?

Small cubes of feta, marinated provolone or bocconcini halves make excellent alternatives.

How can I make this dish more substantial?

Serve the skewers over a bed of mixed greens, add extra tortellini to each skewer and drizzle with a simple olive oil vinaigrette to create a composed salad.

Are these skewers suitable for outdoor events?

Yes. Assemble and chill in a portable container, then add the balsamic glaze just before serving to maintain an attractive appearance.

Conclusion

Tortellini Caprese Skewers elevate the classic Italian salad into a portable, crowd-pleasing appetizer that is fast to assemble and endlessly adaptable. Whether for casual get-togethers, elegant receptions or summer picnics, this recipe marries simplicity with sophistication, delivering vibrant flavours in every bite.