This Broccoli BLT Tortellini Salad is a fun twist on a classic! It mixes tasty tortellini with fresh broccoli, crispy bacon, and juicy tomatoes for a colorful dish.
I love how easy it is to whip up! Plus, who can resist that mix of flavors? It’s perfect for lunch or a tasty side at dinner. Yum! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cheese tortellini: This is the star of the salad, bringing great flavor. I often choose cheese-filled tortellini for a creamy texture. If you want a healthier option, you could swap in spinach or whole wheat tortellini. Or even try gluten-free varieties if that’s your preference!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds crunch and nutrients. If you’re in a pinch, you can use frozen broccoli, just make sure to steam it properly. I find that cutting the florets into small pieces helps them blend better with the tortellini!
Bacon: Crispy bacon gives the salad a smoky flavor. Turkey bacon is a lighter alternative if you’re looking to reduce fat. For a vegetarian option, consider using smoked tempeh or mushrooms for a similar depth of flavor.
Mayonnaise: This creamy base ties everything together. If you’re aiming for a lighter dressing, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute. You can also mix in some Dijon mustard for an extra kick!
How Do I Cook Tortellini Perfectly?
Cooking tortellini might seem simple, but getting it just right is key. Here’s how to ensure perfect results:
- Start with a big pot of salted boiling water. The salt adds flavor to the pasta.
- Add the tortellini and cook according to the package directions. Watch them closely as they typically only need 2-5 minutes to cook.
- Once they’re floating, they’re usually done! Taste one before draining to make sure.
- After draining, rinse with cold water to prevent sticking and cool them down before adding to your salad.
This simple method ensures your tortellini stays al dente and delicious! Enjoy making this colorful salad!
Broccoli BLT Tortellini Salad
Ingredients
- 1 (9-ounce) package cheese tortellini
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 cup chopped Romaine lettuce
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Broccoli BLT Tortellini Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. With this time, you’ll have a refreshing, ready-to-enjoy salad that’s perfect for any lunch or gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Tortellini:
Begin by cooking the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions until they are al dente (cooked but still have a little bite). After draining, rinse them under cool water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Set them aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Preparing the Broccoli:
Next, steam or blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and just tender. Rinse them under cold water immediately to retain their color and freshness. Drain well and set aside.
3. Cooking the Bacon:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the 6 slices of bacon until they are crispy. Once done, transfer them to paper towels to drain excess grease, and once they cool, crumble them into small pieces.
4. Mixing the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste it and adjust any seasonings if needed—feel free to make it to your liking!
5. Combining the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, steamed broccoli, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped Romaine lettuce, and crumbled bacon. Pour the dressing over the salad.
6. Tossing It All Together:
Toss everything gently to ensure the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly. Enjoy the mix of flavors and colors!
7. Chilling and Serving the Salad:
Cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will help the flavors meld beautifully together. Finally, before serving, garnish your salad with a sprinkle of additional crumbled bacon, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Serve this Broccoli BLT Tortellini Salad cold, and enjoy a delightful hearty dish that makes a perfect lunch or an appetizing side! Bon appétit!
Can I Use Store-Bought Tortellini for This Salad?
Absolutely! Store-bought cheese tortellini is convenient and perfect for this salad. Just follow the package instructions for cooking, and you’ll have delicious results!
How Do I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
To make this salad vegetarian, simply omit the bacon or replace it with an alternative like smoked tempeh or crispy chickpeas. You can also enhance the flavor with extra seasonings or herbs.
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes! You can make this salad a day in advance. Just toss everything together except the lettuce, which you can add just before serving to keep it crisp. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Just remember to stir it gently before serving, as the dressing may settle. However, enjoy it soon for the best texture!
