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–+ servings
Fresh Grinder Tortellini Salad

Fresh Grinder Tortellini Salad That's Bursting with Flavor

This Fresh Grinder Tortellini Salad bursts with flavor, combining cheese-filled tortellini, crispy bacon, and tangy pepperoncini for a delightful twist on classic Italian flavors.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 16 oz Frozen Cheese Tortellini Cook until al dente
  • 6 oz Bacon Chopped small and crispy
  • 1/2 cup Pepperoncini Peppers Sliced
  • 1/2 cup Red Onion Finely chopped
  • 1 cup Tomatoes Halved or diced cherry tomatoes
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Can use Greek yogurt for lighter option
  • 2 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Oregano Use fresh if possible
  • 1 tsp Italian Seasoning Optional
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes Adjust to taste
For Toppings
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Can be replaced with feta or omitted
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Drizzle for richness

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Large Pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • colander
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat over medium heat and add chopped bacon. Cook for about 6–8 minutes or until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease and cool.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, add frozen cheese tortellini, and cook according to package instructions (3–5 minutes) until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, oregano, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
  4. Add cooled tortellini to the bowl with the dressing, followed by pepperoncini, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and crispy bacon. Gently fold together with a spatula.
  5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
  6. Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss, adjusting seasoning if needed. Serve chilled.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 12gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 18gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This salad can be customized with different proteins or vegetables and can be prepared a day in advance for optimal flavor. It’s best served chilled.

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