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Italian Grinder Pasta Salad Recipe

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4.9 from 56 reviews

A flavorful and hearty Italian Grinder Pasta Salad featuring rotini pasta, a blend of Italian deli meats, fresh vegetables, and a tangy Italian dressing. Perfectly chilled to meld flavors, this cold pasta salad is ideal for picnics, potlucks, or a refreshing side dish.

Ingredients

Pasta and Meats

  • 16 oz rotini pasta, cooked and cooled
  • 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
  • 1/2 cup chopped salami
  • 1/2 cup chopped ham

Vegetables and Cheese

  • 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
  • 1/2 cup sliced red onions
  • 1/2 cup sliced banana peppers
  • 1/2 cup sliced black olives
  • 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

Dressing

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt & black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Boil the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside to cool completely.
  2. Combine Meats and Pasta: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta along with sliced pepperoni, chopped salami, and chopped ham. Mix gently to distribute the meats evenly.
  3. Add Vegetables and Cheese: Incorporate shredded iceberg lettuce, sliced red onions, banana peppers, black olives, chopped tomatoes, shredded provolone, and grated parmesan cheese into the pasta and meat mixture. Toss lightly to combine all ingredients.
  4. Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well blended.
  5. Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss thoroughly until all components are evenly coated with the dressing.
  6. Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill properly.
  7. Serve: Serve the pasta salad cold, optionally garnished with extra parmesan cheese or fresh herbs such as parsley or basil for added freshness and presentation.

Notes

  • Ensure pasta is completely cooled before mixing to prevent the dressing from melting or becoming oily.
  • Adjust seasoning such as salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning according to taste preference.
  • For a lighter option, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a lighter dressing alternative.
  • This salad can be prepared a day ahead for enhanced flavor.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Find it online: https://dishesbydaisy.com/italian-grinder-pasta-salad-recipe/