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Italian Grinder Pasta Salad

Italian Grinder Pasta Salad: Zesty Twist for Any Gathering

Italian Grinder Pasta Salad is a vibrant, easy dish perfect for gatherings, featuring rotini pasta, fresh vegetables, and savory cured meats.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Rotini Pasta
For the Meats
  • 4 oz Sliced Pepperoni
  • 4 oz Chopped Salami
  • 4 oz Chopped Ham omit for vegetarian version
For the Vegetables
  • 2 cups Shredded Iceberg Lettuce or romaine
  • 1 medium Sliced Red Onion soak in cold water if needed
  • 1/2 cup Sliced Banana Peppers or jalapeños
  • 1/2 cup Sliced Black Olives optional
  • 1 cup Chopped Tomatoes or cherry tomatoes
For the Cheese
  • 1 cup Shredded Provolone Cheese or mozzarella
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese or nutritional yeast for dairy-free
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup Red Wine Vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil consider flavored oils
  • 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning or fresh herbs
  • 1 tsp Salt to taste
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, sliced pepperoni, chopped salami, and chopped ham. Fold gently to distribute.
  3. Add the shredded iceberg lettuce, sliced red onion, banana peppers, sliced black olives, and chopped tomatoes to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until all ingredients are well-coated.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
  7. Serve cold, optionally garnished with additional grated Parmesan or fresh herbs.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, chill the salad before serving, and consider adding shredded lettuce just before serving if prepared in advance.

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