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Tasty Grinder Tortellini Salad

A creamy, tangy pasta salad inspired by the viral Grinder sandwich. Packed with tortellini, crispy bacon, tomatoes, and a rich creamy dressing.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Lunch, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Italian-American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Salad Base
  • 20 oz cheese tortellini refrigerated package
  • 8 slices bacon cooked crispy and crumbled
  • 1.5 cups cherry tomatoes halved (red and yellow mix)
  • 0.5 cup red onion thinly sliced or diced
  • 0.25 cup parmesan cheese grated
Creamy Grinder Dressing
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp garlic powder or 1 clove minced fresh
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp pepperoncini juice optional, from the jar

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet (for bacon)
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add tortellini and cook according to package instructions (usually 3-5 mins). Drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. While pasta cooks, fry the bacon in a skillet until crispy. Drain on paper towels and chop into bits.
  3. Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and thinly slice the red onion.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and pepperoncini juice (if using).
  5. In a large salad bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, tomatoes, red onion, and most of the bacon.
  6. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly.
  7. Top with grated parmesan cheese and remaining bacon bits. Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Notes

Soaking raw red onions in ice water for 10 minutes before adding reduces their bite. Add pepperoncini peppers for extra heat.