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Grinder Tortellini Salad

Grinder Tortellini Salad: The Perfect Summer Picnic Dish

Grinder Tortellini Salad is a must-try for summer picnics, combining cheesy tortellini, crispy bacon, and tangy pepperoncini for a delightful dish.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 12 ounces Frozen Cheese Tortellini opt for fresh for superior texture
  • 6-8 strips Bacon cook until crispy
  • ½ cup Pepperoncini Peppers slice into smaller pieces
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese grated
  • 1 small Red Onion finely chopped
  • 1 cup Tomatoes diced ripe varieties
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for lighter option
  • 2 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar adjust amount for more/less tang
  • 1 teaspoon Oregano fresh can be substituted
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning use preferred blend
  • ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder or fresh minced garlic
  • to taste Red Pepper Flakes adjust based on spice preference

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Spatula
  • Tongs

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat for about 8-10 minutes until crispy and golden brown. Transfer to a plate and let cool before chopping.
  2. Prepare the Tortellini: Boil salted water, add frozen cheese tortellini and cook according to package, usually 7-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. Mix the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, oregano, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes until smooth.
  4. Combine the Salad Ingredients: Add tortellini, chopped bacon, pepperoncini, Parmesan, red onion, and tomatoes to the bowl with dressing. Toss gently.
  5. Chill the Salad: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For best flavor, let rest overnight.
  6. Serve the Salad: Stir gently before serving. Serve chilled, optionally garnished with more Parmesan.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 10gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This salad can be customized with different veggies or pasta to suit personal taste. It's ideal for summer gatherings and can be made ahead of time.

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