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Italian Grinder Pasta Salad

Italian Grinder Pasta Salad: Your New Favorite Summer Dish

This Italian Grinder Pasta Salad is a vibrant dish that combines hearty deli flavors with refreshing pasta textures, perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Base
  • 8 oz Rotini Pasta Use your favorite pasta shape or gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.
For the Meats
  • 4 oz Sliced Pepperoni Swap with deli turkey slices for a milder flavor.
  • 4 oz Chopped Salami Turkey or a meatless deli alternative works well too.
  • 4 oz Chopped Ham Omit for a vegetarian version or substitute with tofu for added protein.
For the Fresh Crunch
  • 2 cups Shredded Iceberg Lettuce Consider using shredded kale or arugula for a nutrient boost.
  • 1 medium Sliced Red Onions Green onions can be used for a milder taste.
  • 1 cup Sliced Banana Peppers Try pickled jalapeños for a spicier kick.
  • 1 cup Sliced Black Olives Omit for less saltiness or use green olives.
  • 1 cup Chopped Tomatoes Cherry tomatoes are a delightful substitute.
For the Cheesy Goodness
  • 1 cup Shredded Provolone Cheese Swap with mozzarella or feta cheese for a different twist.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast can serve as a dairy-free alternative.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt or vegan mayo can enhance the health factor.
  • 3 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar Apple cider vinegar delivers a different flavor profile.
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Avocado oil offers a lighter option.
  • 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning Fresh herbs like basil or oregano provide a refreshing twist.
  • to taste Salt & Black Pepper Essential seasonings to elevate the overall flavor profile.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • mixing bowl
  • spatula
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Boil a large pot of salted water over high heat. Add rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8–10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rotini pasta with sliced pepperoni, chopped salami, and chopped ham. Stir gently to mix.
  3. Add in shredded iceberg lettuce, sliced red onions, sliced banana peppers, sliced black olives, and chopped tomatoes. Toss gently 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 salad mixture and toss thoroughly.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
  7. Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and serve in a large bowl. Garnish if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 14gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

For best results, add lettuce just before serving to keep it crunchy. Use a high-quality mayonnaise for the dressing.

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