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Italian Grinder Pasta Salad

Italian Grinder Pasta Salad: Flavorful Twist for Any Gathering

This Italian Grinder Pasta Salad combines bold flavors and customizable ingredients, making it a perfect dish for gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Base
  • 8 ounces Rotini Pasta can substitute with penne or fusilli
For the Meats
  • 4 ounces Pepperoni or turkey pepperoni
  • 4 ounces Salami omit for vegetarian
  • 4 ounces Ham or grilled chicken
For the Crunch
  • 2 cups Shredded Iceberg Lettuce or romaine
  • 1 small Sliced Red Onion or green onions
  • 1 cup Sliced Banana Peppers or pickled jalapeños
  • 1 cup Sliced Black Olives or green olives
  • 1 cup Chopped Tomatoes or cherry tomatoes
For the Cheesy Goodness
  • 1 cup Shredded Provolone Cheese or mozzarella or feta
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese or nutritional yeast
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup Red Wine Vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil or any neutral oil
  • 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning or fresh herbs
  • to taste Salt & Black Pepper

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • large mixing bowl
  • small bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Cook the rotini pasta in salted water according to package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Combine cooled pasta with chopped pepperoni, salami, and ham in a large bowl. Toss gently to mix.
  3. Fold in shredded lettuce, sliced onions, banana peppers, black olives, and tomatoes. Combine gently.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss thoroughly to coat evenly.
  6. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
  7. Stir before serving. Optionally garnish with extra parmesan or herbs.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 12gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 820mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 8mg

Notes

Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients. Best made ahead for infusion of flavors.

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