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A vibrant Grinder Tortellini Salad filled with colorful ingredients.

Grinder Tortellini Salad

This Grinder Tortellini Salad combines tender tortellini with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, savory deli meats, and provolone cheese, all tossed in a zesty, creamy dressing. Perfect for a refreshing meal or side dish, it's a delightful twist on classic flavors.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 6 people
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • large pot
  • medium bowl
  • whisk
  • large mixing bowl

Ingredients
  

For the Salad:

  • 1 package refrigerated cheese tortellini (19-ounce)
  • 3 cups shredded iceberg or romaine lettuce
  • 1 cup chopped cherry tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
  • 1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)
  • 4 ounces sliced deli salami , cut into strips
  • 4 ounces sliced pepperoni , cut into strips
  • 4 ounces provolone cheese cubed or julienned
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish

For the Dressing:

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons banana pepper brine
  • Salt to taste

Instructions
 

Cook Tortellini

  • Bring salted water to a boil, then cook tortellini until al dente according to package directions.
  • Drain the tortellini and rinse it under cold water to cool it down, then set aside.

Prepare Dressing

  • Whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, oregano, garlic powder, black pepper, and banana pepper brine until smooth.
  • Taste the dressing and season with salt as needed.

Combine Salad

  • In a large bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, lettuce, cherry tomatoes, red onion, optional black olives, salami, pepperoni, and provolone cheese.

Dress and Chill

  • Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for flavors to meld, then toss again and garnish with parsley before serving.

Notes

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing. You can also customize the salad with other deli meats or cheeses to your preference. Make sure to chill the salad long enough for the flavors to fully develop.