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Grinder Tortellini Salad

  • Author: Daniel Reed
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

This creamy Grinder Tortellini Salad is a viral pasta salad packed with cheesy tortellini, crispy bacon, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a rich grinder-style dressing. Inspired by classic deli grinder sandwiches, this easy 4 ingredient tortellini salad is perfect for potlucks, BBQs, and quick weeknight meals. It’s creamy, savory, and incredibly satisfying.

If you’re looking for an easy tortellini pasta salad that comes together quickly but delivers big flavor, this grinder pasta salad is a must-try. Make it ahead for gatherings or meal prep lunches all week.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 20 oz cheese tortellini
  • 8 slices cooked bacon crumbled
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 3/4 cup creamy grinder dressing
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese optional
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley optional
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup sliced red onion optional

Instructions

  1. 1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil
  2. 2. Cook cheese tortellini according to package instructions
  3. 3. Drain tortellini and rinse lightly with cool water
  4. 4. Allow tortellini to cool completely
  5. 5. Place tortellini in a large mixing bowl
  6. 6. Add crumbled bacon and halved cherry tomatoes
  7. 7. Pour grinder dressing over the mixture
  8. 8. Gently toss until evenly coated
  9. 9. Top with parmesan, parsley, and pepper
  10. 10. Chill for 30 minutes before serving

Notes

  • Use refrigerated tortellini for best texture
  • Cook pasta just until tender to avoid mushy salad
  • Cool tortellini before adding dressing
  • Add bacon just before serving for maximum crunch
  • Use thick cut bacon for stronger flavor
  • Chill salad 30 minutes to develop flavor
  • Add extra dressing if salad sits overnight
  • Fresh herbs brighten the dish
  • Great for potlucks and BBQ gatherings
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Boiled
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: grinder tortellini salad, tortellini pasta salad, viral grinder pasta salad, bacon tortellini salad

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Find it online: https://www.recipelyx.com/grinder-tortellini-salad/