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Italian Grinder Pasta Salad

Italian Grinder Pasta Salad: A Zesty Twist on a Classic

This Italian Grinder Pasta Salad is a delicious blend of crunchy veggies, savory meats, and a creamy dressing, making it a must-try for summer gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Rotini Pasta Can substitute with gluten-free pasta
For the Meats
  • 4 ounces Pepperoni Can replace with turkey deli slices
  • 4 ounces Salami Omit for vegetarian version
  • 4 ounces Ham Substitute with turkey ham for healthier option
For the Veggies
  • 2 cups Iceberg Lettuce Add just before serving
  • 1 medium Red Onion Can use sweet onions for milder flavor
  • 1/2 cup Banana Peppers Diced cucumbers can be used as alternative
  • 1/2 cup Black Olives Can be substituted with green olives or omitted
  • 1 cup Tomatoes Cherry tomatoes add sweetness
For the Cheese
  • 4 ounces Provolone Cheese Mozzarella can be used as substitute
  • 2 tablespoons Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast for vegan option
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter option
  • 2 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar Apple cider vinegar can substitute
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Any neutral oil works
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning Fresh herbs can be used for more freshness
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • colander
  • Small bowl

Method
 

Cooking and Mixing
  1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with pepperoni, salami, ham, iceberg lettuce, red onions, banana peppers, black olives, tomatoes, provolone, and Parmesan. Toss gently to mix.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
  4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently until evenly coated.
  5. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  6. Before serving, stir the salad to redistribute ingredients and garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 27gProtein: 15gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This salad is best served cold. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

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