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Italian Grinder Pasta Salad

Italian Grinder Pasta Salad: A Refreshing Deli Delight

This Italian Grinder Pasta Salad combines classic deli flavors into a vibrant dish that delights any crowd.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 16 oz Rotini Pasta Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
For the Meats
  • 5 oz Pepperoni Use turkey pepperoni for a lighter option.
  • 5 oz Salami Can substitute with turkey or chicken slices.
  • 5 oz Ham Omit for a vegetarian version and add chickpeas.
For the Vegetables
  • 2 cups Iceberg Lettuce Use romaine for a more flavorful green.
  • 1 medium Red Onion Sweet onions can be used for a milder taste.
  • 1 cup Banana Peppers Jalapeños can replace for a spicier flavor.
  • 1 cup Black Olives Green olives are a suitable alternative.
  • 2 medium Tomatoes Cherry tomatoes can provide a sweeter taste.
For the Cheeses
  • 8 oz Provolone Cheese Mozzarella pearls or feta cheese can be used.
  • 3 oz Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free version.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt offers a lighter alternative.
  • 3 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar Apple cider vinegar works well.
  • ¼ cup Olive Oil Avocado oil can be used.
  • 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning Create a fresh mix of oregano, basil, and thyme.
  • to taste Salt & Black Pepper Adjust to personal preference.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • colander
  • whisk
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process. Allow it to cool completely before moving on to the next step.
  2. In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the cooled rotini pasta with the diced pepperoni, salami, and ham. Next, add in the crisp iceberg lettuce, vibrant red onions, tangy banana peppers, sliced black olives, and juicy tomatoes, followed by provolone and parmesan cheese. Gently toss everything together to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.
  3. In a separate small mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, and olive oil until the mixture is uniformly blended and smooth. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, then season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  4. Pour the freshly prepared dressing over the pasta and meat mixture. With a spatula or large spoon, gently toss everything together so that the dressing evenly coats the pasta and other ingredients.
  5. Transfer the Italian Grinder Pasta Salad to an airtight container or cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap. Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Before serving, give the salad a good toss to reincorporate any settled dressing and ingredients. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with freshly chopped herbs or extra cheese, if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 18gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 8IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Allow the salad to sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes for flavors to meld beautifully. This recipe is perfect for meal prep; store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

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