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Italian Grinder Pasta Salad

Italian Grinder Pasta Salad: A Flavorful Twist on Tradition

This Italian Grinder Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of classic Italian flavors, perfect for summer gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 12 oz Short Pasta (rotini or penne) Use twisty shapes to capture the dressing.
  • 6 oz Salami, chopped Adds richness; can swap with turkey.
  • 4 oz Pepperoni, sliced Provides bold flavor; omit for lighter dish.
  • 6 oz Provolone Cheese, cubed Brings creamy texture.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes, halved Adds freshness; can replace with seasonal tomatoes.
  • 1 cup Shredded Lettuce Offers crunch; fold in just before serving.
  • 0.25 cup Red Onion, thinly sliced Introduces sharpness; green onions can be used.
  • 0.5 cup Banana Peppers, sliced Provides tang and a slight kick.
For the Dressing
  • 0.5 cup Mayonnaise Creates creaminess.
  • 0.5 cup Italian Dressing Essential for authentic flavor.
  • 1 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar Adds sharpness.
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano Infuses classic Italian aromas.
  • 0.5 tsp Black Pepper Adds mild heat.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • plastic wrap

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and cool.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Italian dressing, red wine vinegar, oregano, and black pepper until smooth.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta and dressing, tossing gently to coat evenly.
  4. Fold in the salami, pepperoni, provolone, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and banana peppers.
  5. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  6. Just before serving, fold in the shredded lettuce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 15gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 750mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Allow to chill for at least 1 hour for best flavor. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Add lettuce just before serving to keep it fresh.

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