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Grinder Tortellini Salad Picnic Idea

Grinder Tortellini Salad Picnic Idea for a Flavorful Summer

Grinder Tortellini Salad Picnic Idea combines savory meats, zesty pepperoncini, and creamy cheese for a refreshing summer salad.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 12 oz Frozen Cheese Tortellini or fresh tortellini for better texture
  • 6 slices Bacon cooked until crispy
  • 1 medium Red Onion finely chopped
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes sliced
  • 1/2 cup Pepperoncini Peppers chopped
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese grated, with extra for garnish
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise creamy base
  • 2 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar for acidity
  • 1 tsp Oregano dried
  • 1 tsp Italian Seasoning for flavor
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder adds savory notes
  • 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes adjust for heat preference

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Large Pot
  • mixing bowl
  • Slotted spoon
  • paper towels

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the frozen cheese tortellini according to package instructions, about 3-5 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, oregano, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes until smooth.
  4. In a large bowl, combine tortellini, crispy bacon, chopped pepperoncini, diced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, and grated Parmesan. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently.
  5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let flavors meld.
  6. Before serving, stir the salad to redistribute dressing and garnish with extra Parmesan.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 650mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 8IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 6mg

Notes

Allow tortellini to be cooked al dente and chill to meld flavors. Reserve some dressing for serving if the salad appears dry.

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