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–+ servings
Italian Grinder Pasta Salad

Delicious Italian Grinder Pasta Salad You’ll Love to Customize

Experience the vibrant flavors of Italian Grinder Pasta Salad, a customizable dish perfect for meal prep or gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 16 ounces Rotini Pasta Opt for gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
  • 6 ounces Sliced Pepperoni Swap for turkey or chicken slices if desired.
  • 4 ounces Chopped Salami Can be omitted or exchanged for another deli meat.
  • 4 ounces Chopped Ham Consider using cooked chicken for a different twist.
  • 4 cups Shredded Iceberg Lettuce Substitute with romaine or mixed greens if you prefer.
  • 1 medium Sliced Red Onion Green onions work well for a milder flavor.
  • 1 cup Sliced Banana Peppers Optional if you prefer a milder salad experience.
  • 1 cup Sliced Black Olives Substitute with green olives or skip if they’re not your favorite.
  • 2 small Chopped Tomatoes Cherry tomatoes are a great alternative.
  • 4 ounces Shredded Provolone Cheese Swap for mozzarella or feta for a different cheese adventure.
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can lighten it up, if preferred.
  • 1/4 cup Red Wine Vinegar Feel free to substitute with white wine vinegar or lemon juice.
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Any neutral oil can work as a substitute.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning A mix of dried herbs like oregano and basil also works well.
  • to taste Salt & Black Pepper Adjust to your taste for the perfect flavor.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • spoon
  • salad tongs

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook for 8–10 minutes or until al dente, stirring occasionally. Once done, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
  2. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rotini, pepperoni, salami, and ham. Fold in the lettuce, red onions, banana peppers, black olives, and tomatoes. Gradually add provolone and Parmesan cheese.
  3. Prepare Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and Italian seasoning until smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  4. Dress Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture, toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  5. Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to meld the flavors.
  6. Serve: Give the salad a gentle stir before serving. Garnish with additional Parmesan or fresh herbs as desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 15gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 20gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 8mg

Notes

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Avoid freezing with dressing as texture may change. Add lettuce just before serving for freshness.

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