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Fresh Grinder Tortellini Salad

Fresh Grinder Tortellini Salad: Your Ultimate Summer Delight

A refreshing Fresh Grinder Tortellini Salad that blends classic Italian sub flavors into a delightful pasta dish, perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 pkg Frozen Cheese Tortellini Fresh tortellini enhances texture if available.
  • 8 oz Bacon Opt for thick-cut for extra crunch.
  • ½ cup Pepperoncini Peppers Banana peppers can serve as a milder substitute.
  • ¼ cup Red Onion Finely chopped for better distribution.
  • 1 cup Tomatoes Halved cherry tomatoes bring freshness.
For the Dressing
  • ½ cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt is a lighter option.
  • 2 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar Can substitute with white wine vinegar.
  • ½ tsp Oregano Fresh oregano can enhance the taste.
  • 1 tsp Italian Seasoning Fresh herbs can be a delightful substitute.
  • ½ tsp Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can add extra punch.
  • to taste Salt Adjust to taste preferences.
  • to taste Red Pepper Flakes Omit for a milder experience.
For the Garnish
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese Other hard cheeses like Pecorino can work well.

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Tongs

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Fresh Grinder Tortellini Salad
  1. In a large skillet, cook thick-cut bacon over medium heat for about 8-10 minutes or until crispy and golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease and cool before chopping into small pieces.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add frozen cheese tortellini, cooking according to package instructions—typically around 3-5 minutes—until they are al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine ½ cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, ½ teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon oregano, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Whisk until smooth.
  4. Add the cooked tortellini, chopped bacon, ½ cup sliced pepperoncini peppers, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, ¼ cup finely chopped red onion, and 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes into the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to coat.
  5. Cover the salad bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 6mg

Notes

For the best flavor, allow the salad to chill for at least two hours before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

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