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Italian Grinder Pasta Salad

Italian Grinder Pasta Salad for a Tasty Crowd-Pleasing Meal

A delightful Italian Grinder Pasta Salad packed with savory cured meats and crunchy vegetables, perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 380

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Base
  • 12 oz Rotini Pasta Gluten-free option available.
For the Meats
  • 4 oz Pepperoni Turkey pepperoni for a lighter option.
  • 4 oz Salami Turkey salami for a leaner choice.
  • 4 oz Ham Omit for vegetarian version.
For the Vegetables
  • 2 cups Iceberg Lettuce Can substitute with romaine or arugula.
  • 1 medium Red Onions Green onions as a milder substitute.
  • 1 cup Banana Peppers Pickled jalapeños for added heat.
  • 1 cup Black Olives Omit or substitute with green olives.
  • 2 cups Tomatoes Cherry tomatoes for extra sweetness.
For the Cheese
  • 6 oz Provolone Cheese Mozzarella can be used for different texture.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Pecorino for a sharper taste.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can lighten it.
  • 3 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar Apple cider vinegar as a substitute.
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Avocado oil is a flavorful alternative.
  • 2 tbsp Italian Seasoning Homemade mix with oregano, basil, and thyme.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • Colander
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions in salted water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with diced pepperoni, salami, and ham. Stir gently to mix.
  3. Add shredded iceberg lettuce, chopped red onions, banana peppers, sliced black olives, and diced tomatoes. Toss to combine.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
  5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss until evenly coated.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill and allow flavors to meld.
  7. Before serving, toss again and garnish with extra grated Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 15gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Customize ingredients to suit personal tastes; this salad is perfect for meal prep and can be made a day in advance.

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