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Grinder Tortellini Salad

Fresh and Flavorful Grinder Tortellini Salad for Summer Gatherings

This Grinder Tortellini Salad is a delicious blend of Italian sub flavors, perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 package Frozen Cheese Tortellini Fresh tortellini can enhance the overall experience.
  • 6 slices Bacon Feel free to use turkey bacon for a lighter option.
  • 1 cup Pepperoncini Peppers Substitute banana peppers for a milder option.
  • 1 small Red Onion Use green onions for a more subtle flavor.
  • 2 cups Sliced Tomatoes Cherry tomatoes are a nice alternative for sweetness.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Plain yogurt can be a healthier swap.
  • 2 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar Apple cider vinegar works well as a substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Oregano Fresh herbs will intensify the flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning Fresh herbs will intensify the flavor.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Garlic Powder Substituting fresh minced garlic gives a bolder taste.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Adjust to match your spice comfort level.
For Serving
  • 0.5 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Consider Pecorino Romano for a sharper twist.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • Colander
  • Spatula

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add diced bacon and cook until crispy, about 6-8 minutes.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the frozen cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, about 3-5 minutes until al dente.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, and a sprinkle of salt. Add oregano, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Whisk together until smooth.
  4. Add the cooled tortellini to the bowl with the dressing along with the chopped bacon, sliced pepperoncini, grated Parmesan cheese, diced red onion, and sliced tomatoes. Gently toss to combine.
  5. Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Once chilled, stir the salad gently and garnish with additional Parmesan if desired. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

This salad can be customized with different vegetables or proteins according to personal preference. Perfect for summer gatherings!

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