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Fresh Grinder Tortellini Salad

Fresh Grinder Tortellini Salad: Creamy Italian Bliss in a Bowl

This Fresh Grinder Tortellini Salad offers creamy, zesty flavors perfect for picnics and gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 12 oz Frozen Cheese Tortellini substitutions: Use fresh tortellini for a more vibrant taste.
  • 6 slices Bacon substitutions: Turkey bacon for a lighter option; omit for vegetarian.
  • 1 cup Pepperoncini Peppers substitutions: Banana peppers for a milder taste.
  • 1 small Red Onion substitutions: Sweet onions for a milder flavor.
  • 2 medium Sliced Tomatoes substitutions: Cherry or grape tomatoes for enhanced sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese substitutions: Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
For the Creamy Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise substitutions: Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
  • 2 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar substitutions: Apple cider vinegar.
  • 1 tsp Oregano substitutions: Fresh herbs for added vibrancy.
  • 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder substitutions: Fresh garlic for a bolder taste.
  • 1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes adjust to taste based on preference.

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Large Pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sliced bacon until crispy, about 6 to 8 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then chop into pieces.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the frozen cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, 3 to 5 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, oregano, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled tortellini, chopped bacon, sliced pepperoncini, red onion, and diced tomatoes. Add grated Parmesan and drizzle with creamy dressing. Fold to combine.
  5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to meld flavors.
  6. Before serving, stir the salad and add more dressing if needed. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Perfect for picnics and gatherings.

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