Go Back
+ servings
Fresh Grinder Tortellini Salad

Fresh Grinder Tortellini Salad: Perfect for Summer Picnics

Fresh Grinder Tortellini Salad is a vibrant pasta salad capturing Italian sub flavors, perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 pkg Frozen Cheese Tortellini Fresh tortellini can enhance the dish.
  • 4 strips Bacon Optional; turkey bacon can be a lighter substitute.
  • 1/2 cup Chopped Pepperoncini Peppers Substitute with banana peppers if needed.
  • 1 cup Sliced Tomatoes Any seasonal cherry or grape tomatoes work well.
  • 1/2 cup Chopped Red Onion Sweet onion can create a milder taste.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Consider Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
  • 2 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar Apple cider vinegar is a great alternative.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used if preferred.
  • 1 tsp Oregano Feel free to swap for fresh herbs if available.
  • 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
  • 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes Omit for a milder experience.
For the Toppings
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Pecorino Romano can be used for a sharper twist.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • airtight container

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a skillet over medium heat, add diced bacon and cook for about 5–7 minutes until crispy, stirring occasionally.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add frozen cheese tortellini and cook according to package directions, usually around 3–5 minutes, until al dente.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, salt, oregano, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Whisk everything together for about 1–2 minutes until smooth.
  4. Add the cooled tortellini, chopped pepperoncini, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped red onion, diced tomatoes, and crispy bacon into the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss until evenly coated.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Before serving, stir gently and drizzle reserved dressing if needed.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 7mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Customize with seasonal vegetables or proteins to make the salad your own. Prep bacon and tortellini a day in advance for easy assembly.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!