Fresh Grinder Tortellini Salad Recipe

Introduction

This Fresh Grinder Tortellini Salad is a flavorful and satisfying dish perfect for a quick lunch or a potluck addition. With crispy bacon, tangy pepperoncini, and a creamy herb dressing, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare.

Ingredients

• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper
• 1 cup mayonnaise (Hellmann’s recommended)
• 1 tsp dried oregano (or 1 tbsp fresh, finely chopped)
• 1/3 cup drained pepperoncini peppers (thinly sliced or roughly chopped)
• 8 slices cooked crumbled bacon
• 1 cup halved grape tomatoes
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion (finely chopped for milder flavor)
• 19 oz frozen cheese tortellini (cooked al dente)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy. Drain the grease and place the bacon on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Chop into small pieces and set aside.
2. Step 2: Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, salt, oregano, Italian herbs, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper. Mix well until the dressing is smooth and blended.
4. Step 4: Add the cooked tortellini, pepperoncini peppers, Parmesan cheese, red onion, grape tomatoes, and chopped bacon to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
5. Step 5: Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour to allow flavors to meld and to chill before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter option, substitute half the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.
• Add fresh basil or parsley for extra herbal brightness.
• Use fresh pepperoncini peppers for a milder, tangier flavor instead of jarred.
• Try adding chopped cucumbers or bell peppers for crunch.

Storage

Store the tortellini salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving. It’s best enjoyed chilled and can be eaten cold or at room temperature. Avoid freezing, as the dressing and fresh ingredients may separate or become soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, the salad can be made up to a day in advance. Chilling allows the flavors to develop, but avoid adding delicate ingredients like fresh herbs until just before serving for best freshness.

What type of tortellini works best?

Cheese-filled frozen tortellini is a great choice for this salad, as it cooks quickly and complements the creamy dressing and savory bacon well. You can also use fresh or refrigerated tortellini if preferred.

Fresh Grinder Tortellini Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 94 reviews

A flavorful and creamy Fresh Grinder Tortellini Salad featuring al dente cheese tortellini, crispy bacon, tangy pepperoncini, fresh grape tomatoes, and a zesty homemade Italian herb dressing. Perfect chilled for a refreshing side dish or light meal.

• Author: Natalie
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

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Dressing

• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 cup mayonnaise (preferably Hellmann’s)
• 1 tsp dried oregano (or 1 tbsp fresh, finely chopped)

Salad

• 1/3 cup drained pepperoncini peppers (thinly sliced or roughly chopped)
• 8 slices cooked crumbled bacon
• 1 cup halved grape tomatoes
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion (finely chopped for milder flavor)
• 19 oz frozen cheese tortellini (cooked al dente according to package directions)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Bacon: Cook the bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain the excess grease and transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to remove any remaining oil. Once cooled, chop the bacon into small pieces and set aside.
2. Cook the Cheese Tortellini: Bring a large pot of water to a boil on the stovetop. Cook the frozen cheese tortellini following the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
3. Make the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, salt, oregano, dried Italian herbs, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir thoroughly to create a smooth and well-blended dressing.
4. Assemble the Salad: To the bowl with the dressing, add the cooled tortellini, pepperoncini peppers, Parmesan cheese, chopped red onion, halved grape tomatoes, and chopped bacon. Gently toss all ingredients until evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Chill and Serve: Cover the salad bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow flavors to meld and the salad to chill. Before serving, give it a gentle stir and enjoy this tasty bacon tortellini salad.

Notes

• For a milder onion flavor, finely chop the red onion or soak it briefly in cold water before adding.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and texture.
• Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to taste if you prefer less heat.
• This salad can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Make sure to rinse the tortellini with cold water to prevent it from sticking and overcooking.

Keywords: tortellini salad, bacon tortellini salad, Italian pasta salad, creamy pasta salad, cheese tortellini salad, pepperoncini salad, easy pasta salad recipe