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Italian Grinder Pasta Salad

Italian Grinder Pasta Salad: A Flavorful Deli-Style Delight

Enjoy a delightful Italian Grinder Pasta Salad, packed with savory meats, fresh veggies, and a creamy dressing that's perfect for any gathering.
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
  

For the Salad
  • 8 ounces Rotini Pasta Any favorite pasta shape.
  • 6 ounces Pepperoni Use turkey pepperoni for a leaner option.
  • 6 ounces Salami Can replace with turkey or chicken deli meat.
  • 6 ounces Ham Omit for a vegetarian version or add chickpeas.
  • 2 cups Iceberg Lettuce Add just before serving to maintain crispness.
  • 1/2 cup Red Onions Use red bell peppers for a milder flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Banana Peppers Jalapeños for more spice.
  • 1/2 cup Black Olives Green olives can be used as an alternative.
  • 1 cup Tomatoes Use cherry tomatoes for a sweeter touch.
  • 4 ounces Provolone Cheese Mozzarella or feta for different profiles.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated for best flavor.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
  • 1 tablespoon Red Wine Vinegar Can use apple cider vinegar as an alternative.
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Use extra virgin for richer flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Use fresh herbs like basil or oregano.
  • to taste Salt & Black Pepper Adjust to taste.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • whisk
  • airtight container

Method
 

Directions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions for 8–10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rotini with pepperoni, salami, and ham. T Toss gently to evenly distribute the meats with the pasta.
  3. Add iceberg lettuce, red onions, banana peppers, black olives, and tomatoes to the bowl. Mix until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until creamy.
  5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss to ensure each ingredient is coated.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  7. Before serving, stir the salad to redistribute dressing and add iceberg lettuce if necessary. Serve cold, garnished with extra parmesan or herbs.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 12gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 750mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Chill thoroughly before serving for optimal flavor. Customize with additional vegetables or different meats as desired.

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