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Grinder Tortellini Salad

Grinder Tortellini Salad: Your New Go-To Summer Delight

Grinder Tortellini Salad is a refreshing summer dish combining Italian sub flavors, perfect for gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 12 oz Frozen Cheese Tortellini Fresh tortellini can elevate texture.
  • 6 slices Bacon Turkey bacon is a lighter alternative.
  • 1 medium Red Onion Consider green onions for milder taste.
  • 1 cup Tomatoes Cherry tomatoes are easy to use.
  • 1/2 cup Pepperoncini Peppers Banana peppers work well too.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt is a lighter version.
  • 2 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar White vinegar can serve as substitute.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used for more flavor.
  • 1 tsp Oregano Italian seasoning is a perfect fit.
  • 1 tsp Italian Seasoning Explore fresh herbs for a fresh twist.
  • 1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes Omit for a milder salad.
For the Topping
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Consider Pecorino or nutritional yeast.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Large Pot
  • colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Plastic Wrap

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grinder Tortellini Salad
  1. Cook the Bacon: Begin by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon strips and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally until crispy. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
  2. Prepare the Tortellini: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add tortellini and cook for 3-5 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside to cool.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, a pinch of salt, oregano, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Whisk until smooth.
  4. Combine Ingredients: To the bowl with dressing, add cooled tortellini, sliced pepperoncini, grated Parmesan, diced red onion, halved tomatoes, and crispy bacon. Toss until well combined.
  5. Chill the Salad: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Give the salad a gentle stir before serving. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 15gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Ensure tortellini is al dente to maintain texture. Reserve some dressing to add before serving for freshness. Customize ingredients as desired.

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