This Broccoli BLT Tortellini Salad is a colorful and tasty dish packed with flavor! It mixes fresh broccoli, crispy bacon, cherry tomatoes, and cheesy tortellini, all tossed together in a creamy dressing.
If you ask me, the combo of cheesy tortellini and crunchy bacon is unbeatable! I love making this salad as a fun side dish for lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is perfect for this salad with its rich flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use spinach or whole wheat tortellini. Even gluten-free versions are available!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add a nice crunch. If you prefer, you can substitute them with cauliflower or even snap peas for a different texture.
Bacon: Bacon provides a lovely salty kick. For a healthier option, turkey bacon works well. If you want a vegetarian version, try adding crispy chickpeas or smoked paprika for that bacon-like flavor.
Avocado: Diced avocado gives creaminess. If you need a substitute, consider using diced cucumbers for crunch, but be aware that they won’t have the same rich texture.
Mayonnaise: For the dressing, classic mayo is great, but Greek yogurt can also be used for a tangy twist and less fat. If you’re dairy-free, avocado mayo is a fantastic alternative!
How Do You Ensure the Perfect Dressing for Your Salad?
The dressing can really make or break your salad, so let’s get it right! Combining mayonnaise with apple cider vinegar balances richness with acidity.
- Whisk ingredients until smooth—this prevents clumps!
- Adjust sweetness by adding more honey or sugar if needed. Taste as you go!
- If it seems too thick, add a splash of water or more vinegar until it’s the right consistency.
How to Make Broccoli BLT Tortellini Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Components:
- 1 (9-ounce) package cheese tortellini
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 avocado, diced
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Broccoli BLT Tortellini Salad will take about 20 minutes to prepare and cook, plus 30 minutes for chilling in the refrigerator. So in total, you’ll have a delightful dish ready in about 50 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
First, cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. Once they’re done, drain them well and rinse with cold water to cool them down. Set them aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
In a large bowl, combine the fresh broccoli florets, quartered cherry tomatoes, diced celery, and diced avocado. These ingredients will add crunch and freshness to your salad!
3. Cook the Bacon:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s crispy. Once done, carefully remove the bacon and place it on paper towels to drain off any excess grease. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into pieces and set aside.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey or sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mixing these ingredients creates a creamy dressing that ties your salad together.
5. Combine Everything:
Add the cooked tortellini and crumbled bacon to the bowl of vegetables. Pour the dressing over the top, and toss everything gently until it’s well combined.
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover your salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to enjoy, serve it cold or at room temperature as a flavorful side dish or light meal.
Enjoy your tasty Broccoli BLT Tortellini Salad!
Can I Use Different Types of Tortellini?
Absolutely! While cheese tortellini is traditional, you can use spinach, mushroom, or even meat-filled tortellini for a flavor twist. Just keep an eye on the cooking times as they may vary.
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt works great as a substitute. You can also try using avocado mayo for a dairy-free choice that maintains creaminess.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
To make the salad vegetarian, simply skip the bacon and consider adding some roasted chickpeas or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture!
