Go Back
+ servings
Italian Grinder Pasta Salad

Italian Grinder Pasta Salad: A Refreshing Deli Delight

Enjoy this Italian Grinder Pasta Salad, a customizable and vibrant dish perfect for gatherings and meal prep.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Rotini Pasta use gluten-free pasta for gluten-free version
  • 6 oz Pepperoni substitute with turkey or chicken deli slices for a leaner option
  • 4 oz Salami omit for vegetarian option
  • 4 oz Ham consider smoked turkey as an alternative
  • 2 cups Shredded Iceberg Lettuce romaine can be used for a sturdier texture
  • 1 cup Red Onions green onions can be used for a milder taste
  • 1 cup Banana Peppers jalapeños can be used for more spice
  • 1 cup Black Olives omit for lower sodium option
  • 2 cups Tomatoes cherry tomatoes, halved, can be used
  • 4 oz Provolone Cheese mozzarella works well as a substitute
  • 2 oz Parmesan Cheese grated pecorino can be used for a sharper flavor
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt is a lighter alternative
  • 3 Tbsp Red Wine Vinegar apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute
  • 1/2 cup Olive Oil a lighter oil is a good swap
  • 2 Tbsp Italian Seasoning individual dried herbs like oregano and basil can be substituted
  • to taste Salt & Black Pepper essential for flavor enhancement

Equipment

  • large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • colander
  • whisk
  • plastic wrap or lid

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Boil a large pot of salted water over high heat. Add rotini pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled rotini pasta. Layer in diced pepperoni, salami, and ham, tossing gently to combine.
  3. Fold in shredded lettuce, red onions, banana peppers, black olives, and diced tomatoes, mixing gently but thoroughly.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
  5. Pour dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is coated evenly.
  6. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  7. Stir before serving. Garnish with extra grated parmesan or fresh herbs if desired. Serve chilled.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 15gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 10mg

Notes

This pasta salad is customizable. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. It can be prepared a day in advance. Add lettuce just before serving to keep it crisp.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!