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Italian Grinder Pasta Salad

Flavor-Packed Italian Grinder Pasta Salad for Your Summer Bash

This Italian Grinder Pasta Salad is a vibrant and customizable dish, perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 360

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Rotini Pasta or your preferred pasta shape
  • 4 oz Pepperoni or turkey pepperoni for a leaner option
  • 4 oz Salami or turkey or chicken deli slices
  • 4 oz Ham omit for a vegetarian version
  • 2 cups Iceberg Lettuce or romaine or spinach
  • 1 medium Red Onion or green onions for milder flavor
  • 1/2 cup Banana Peppers or jalapeños for extra heat
  • 1/2 cup Black Olives omit for a low-sodium option
  • 1 cup Tomatoes halved cherry tomatoes recommended
  • 4 oz Provolone Cheese or mozzarella or feta
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese or pecorino for sharper taste
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lighter option
  • 3 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil or avocado oil
  • 2 tbsp Italian Seasoning or dried oregano or basil
  • Salt & Black Pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • Colander
  • Whisk
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Boil a large pot of salted water over high heat. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled rotini pasta along with sliced pepperoni, salami, and ham. Use a spatula to gently fold in the cured meats, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
  3. Next, toss in the shredded iceberg lettuce, diced red onions, banana peppers, black olives, and halved tomatoes. Gently mix to maintain crunchiness, then sprinkle both provolone and Parmesan cheese on top.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and Italian seasoning. Add a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste.
  5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture. Using a spatula, gently toss until fully coated with dressing.
  6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  7. Once chilled, give the salad a good stir before serving. Garnish with extra cheese or freshly chopped herbs if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 360kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 15gFat: 23gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Make sure to mix well for optimal flavor. Add lettuce last to keep it crisp. Taste before serving to adjust seasoning.

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