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–+ servings
Italian Grinder Pasta Salad

Italian Grinder Pasta Salad for Perfect Summer Gatherings

Italian Grinder Pasta Salad is a vibrant dish combining savory cured meats, fresh veggies, and creamy dressing, perfect for summer gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Rotini Pasta Feel free to use your favorite pasta shape.
  • 1/2 cup Pepperoni Substitute with turkey pepperoni for a lighter option.
  • 1/2 cup Salami Skip for a vegetarian version or replace with additional veggies.
  • 1/2 cup Ham Can be replaced with turkey or omitted for a lighter dish.
  • 1 cup Shredded Iceberg Lettuce Any leafy greens can be swapped in.
  • 1/2 cup Sliced Red Onions Sweet onions can provide a milder flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Sliced Banana Peppers Use pickles for a different zest.
  • 1/2 cup Sliced Black Olives Green olives can be used as a substitute.
  • 1/2 cup Chopped Tomatoes Cherry tomatoes work well for a sweeter alternative.
  • 1/2 cup Shredded Provolone Cheese Mozzarella can be an alternative.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free version.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt makes a healthier substitute.
  • 2 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar Apple cider vinegar can also work.
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil Any neutral oil can serve as a substitute.
  • 1 tsp Italian Seasoning Use dried herbs mix if unavailable.
  • Salt & Black Pepper Adjust to your liking.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions (about 8-10 minutes until al dente). Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with pepperoni, salami, ham, lettuce, red onions, banana peppers, black olives, tomatoes, provolone, and Parmesan. Gently mix.
  3. Prepare the Dressing: Whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, Italian seasoning, and salt & pepper in a separate bowl until smooth.
  4. Combine Salad and Dressing: Pour dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss until well coated.
  5. Chill and Meld Flavors: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Toss before serving. Garnish with extra cheese or herbs if desired. Serve chilled.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 15gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Prepare a day in advance for enhanced flavor. Customize ingredients based on preference. Excellent for potlucks and gatherings.

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