Broccoli Bacon Pasta Salad

Broccoli Bacon Pasta Salad

Author: Annette (•‿•)

This Broccoli Bacon Pasta Salad combines tender cheese tortellini, fresh broccoli, smoky bacon, red onion, and sweet dried cranberries with a creamy homemade dressing. It's a delicious make-ahead side dish for potlucks, family dinners, and backyard barbecues.

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Prep Time:10

Cook Time:15

Chill Time:1

Total Time:1 25

Course: Lunch, Salads, Sides

Cuisine: American, Italian

Keyword: Creamy, Easy to Make, Make Ahead, Party Food

Servings:

Calories: 449cal

Equipment

Hellman's Real Mayonnaise for its rich and tangy flavors.
Miracle Whip Dressing a good alternative for sweeter and zesty flavors.
Pompeian Gourmet Red Wine Vinegar has perfect bold and fruity flavors.
Colavita Raspberry Red Wine Vinegar is an excellent option if you can find it.

Ingredients

Pasta Salad

1 pound cheese tortellini
8 - 10 slices bacon
2 heads fresh broccoli cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
1 medium red onion chopped
⅔ cup dried cranberries

Dressing

¼ cup red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 cup mayonnaise
1½ teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions

Whisk all the dressing ingredients in a small bowl until creamy. Set aside.
Cook the tortellini according to package directions. Drain, rinse with cool water, and set aside.
While the tortellini is cooking, place the bacon slices in a large, deep skillet and cook over medium-high heat, turning occasionally. Cook for about 10 minutes or until evenly browned.
Transfer cooked bacon to a plate covered in paper towel to drain. Chop bacon into half-inch pieces while still a little warm.
Place chopped bacon in a large mixing bowl. Add the broccoli, cooked tortellini, onions, and dried cranberries. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss to distribute the dressing throughout.
Cover the bowl and put it in the fridge to blend flavors and cool.
Gently re-toss the salad when ready to eat.

Nutrition