Name: Fresh Grinder Tortellini Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
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 flakes; 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); 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)

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Introduction

This Fresh Grinder Tortellini Salad is a delightful combination of tender cheese tortellini, tangy pepperoncini, and a creamy Italian dressing. It’s perfect for a light lunch or as a colorful side dish for your next gathering.

The dish shows a close-up of multiple tortellini pasta pieces that are creamy and lightly coated with white sauce, sprinkled with small green herbs and black pepper. Scattered around and on top are crispy red bacon pieces, thin purple onion slices, and some grated white cheese. The pasta looks soft and plump with a shiny texture, resting on a base layer of mixed green leaves and some colorful cherry tomatoes visible at the edges. A silver fork lifts a few tortellini, showing the rich sauce clinging to the pasta and bacon. The overall setting is on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

For the 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
1 cup mayonnaise (Hellmann’s recommended)
1 tsp dried oregano (or 1 tbsp fresh, finely chopped)

For the salad:

1/3 cup drained pepperoncini peppers (thinly sliced or roughly chopped)
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

Step 1: Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the cheese tortellini according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking, then set aside.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, salt, oregano, Italian herbs, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper until well blended.
Step 3: Add the cooked tortellini, pepperoncini peppers, Parmesan cheese, red onion, and grape tomatoes to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
Step 4: Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour to let the flavors meld. Stir before serving and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

For a milder onion flavor, soak chopped red onion in cold water for 10 minutes before adding.
Add cooked and crumbled bacon for extra savory depth.
Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a vibrant twist.
Substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing.

Storage

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving. This salad is best enjoyed chilled but can be eaten at room temperature as well.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with creamy tortellini pasta that is light yellow in color and coated in a thick white sauce. Scattered throughout the dish are red cherry tomato halves, thin purple onion slices, and small pieces of crispy brown bacon. There are also yellow pepper rings adding a pop of color. The pasta and toppings are sprinkled with green herbs and crushed black pepper. The bowl sits on a light gray cloth over a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh tortellini works well; just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions and be careful not to overcook.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. It keeps well in the fridge and the flavors improve after sitting, making it perfect for preparing ahead of time.