Italian Grinder Pasta Salad Recipe

Introduction

This Italian Grinder Pasta Salad offers a flavorful twist on a classic pasta dish, combining savory deli meats, crisp vegetables, and a tangy, creamy dressing. It’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 16 ounces penne pasta
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 4 ounces shredded iceberg lettuce (about 2-3 cups)
• 4 ounces ham
• 4 ounces pepperoni
• 4 ounces salami
• 4 ounces provolone cheese
• 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers
• 1/2 red onion, finely diced

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the penne pasta according to package directions. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to cool the pasta, then drain again thoroughly.
2. Step 2: Prepare the dressing by whisking together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, sugar, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and grated parmesan cheese until smooth. Set the dressing aside.
3. Step 3: Slice the ham, pepperoni, and salami into 1/4 inch pieces. Cut the provolone cheese into thin slices or small cubes.
4. Step 4: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, shredded iceberg lettuce, sliced meats, provolone, grape tomatoes, pepperoncini peppers, and diced red onion.
5. Step 5: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything gently until it is evenly coated.

Tips & Variations

• For added freshness, toss in some chopped fresh basil or parsley before serving.
• Substitute the iceberg lettuce with romaine or arugula for a different texture.
• Use turkey or chicken slices in place of the ham for a leaner option.
• Make it vegetarian by omitting the meats and adding extra vegetables like cucumbers or olives.

Storage

Store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed chilled. Before serving leftovers, give the salad a gentle toss to redistribute the dressing and freshen the ingredients.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this pasta salad in advance?

Yes, this salad tastes great when made a few hours ahead or even the day before. Just keep it refrigerated and toss before serving.

What can I substitute for pepperoncini peppers?

If you don’t have pepperoncini, you can use mild banana peppers or even slices of pickled jalapeños for a bit more heat.

Italian Grinder Pasta Salad Recipe

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4.8 from 61 reviews

Italian Grinder Pasta Salad is a flavorful, hearty salad featuring penne pasta tossed with classic Italian deli meats, provolone cheese, fresh vegetables, and a tangy homemade grinder dressing. This chilled pasta salad makes a perfect side dish or light meal, combining textures and tastes reminiscent of a traditional Italian sub in a delightful pasta form.

• Author: Lila
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 16 ounces penne pasta

Dressing

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

Salad Ingredients

• 4 ounces shredded iceberg lettuce (about 2–3 cups)
• 4 ounces ham
• 4 ounces pepperoni
• 4 ounces salami
• 4 ounces provolone cheese
• 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers
• 1/2 red onion, finely diced

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Prepare the penne pasta according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down quickly, then drain again to remove excess water.
2. Make the Grinder Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, sugar, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and grated parmesan cheese until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Meats and Cheese: Slice the ham, pepperoni, and salami into 1/4 inch slices. Cut the provolone cheese into thin slices or small cubes as preferred.
4. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with shredded iceberg lettuce, sliced ham, pepperoni, salami, provolone cheese, halved grape tomatoes, sliced pepperoncini peppers, and finely diced red onion.
5. Toss with Dressing: Pour the prepared grinder dressing over the salad mixture. Toss everything together thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.

Notes

• For best flavor, chill the assembled pasta salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
• You can substitute penne pasta with other short pasta shapes like rotini or rigatoni if preferred.
• If you prefer a lighter dressing, reduce mayonnaise and substitute part with plain Greek yogurt.
• Feel free to add or omit deli meats based on preference; turkey or cooked chicken can also work well.
• Ensure to rinse the pasta with cold water after cooking to stop the cooking process and prevent the pasta from becoming mushy.

Keywords: Italian grinder pasta salad, deli meat pasta salad, Italian pasta salad, penne pasta salad, cold pasta salad, sandwich inspired pasta salad