Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Salad

Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Salad is a quick and creamy pasta salad that combines cheesy tortellini, smoky bacon, sweet peas, and a rich garlic-Parmesan sauce. It’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a hearty weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 20 minutes with minimal prep
• Deliciously creamy and cheesy with a hint of garlic
• Ideal as a main dish or a crowd-pleasing side
• Easily customizable with your favorite mix-ins

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cheese tortellini
• Bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Frozen peas
• Garlic, minced
• Butter
• All-purpose flour
• Milk
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper

Directions

this recipe

1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Add peas in the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in flour to form a roux.
3. Slowly whisk in milk and cook until the mixture thickens. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, peas, and crumbled bacon.
5. Pour the garlic-Parmesan sauce over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
6. Serve warm, or refrigerate and serve chilled.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Use pancetta instead of bacon for a different smoky flavor
• Add fresh veggies like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers
• Stir in grilled chicken for added protein
• Swap peas with steamed broccoli or spinach

Storage/reheating

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, frozen tortellini works just as well—just follow the package directions for cooking.

2. Is this salad served warm or cold?

It can be served either way, depending on your preference.

3. Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely, just omit the bacon or use a vegetarian bacon alternative.

4. What’s the best Parmesan to use?

Freshly grated Parmesan offers the best flavor and texture.

5. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.

6. How can I thin the sauce if it gets too thick?

Add a splash of milk and stir until the desired consistency is reached.

7. Are there other veggies I can add?

Yes, try adding diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or spinach.

8. Can I freeze the leftovers?

It’s not recommended as the sauce may separate when thawed.

9. How do I keep the peas from overcooking?

Add them in the last couple of minutes of boiling the tortellini.

10. What can I serve with this salad?

It pairs well with grilled meats, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Salad is creamy, flavorful, and easy to make. Whether served warm or cold, it’s a dish that’s sure to please a crowd or satisfy your family at dinner. Try it once and it might just become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

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