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The best Grinder Pasta Salad

The Best Grinder Pasta Salad – Creamy, Crunchy, Irresistible

The best Grinder Pasta Salad combines savory meats, creamy cheese, and zesty vegetables for a delightful meal option.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 12 oz Rotini Pasta Consider semolina-based for the best texture.
  • 6 oz Salami Can be swapped with turkey or chicken.
  • 4 oz Deli Ham
  • 4 oz Provolone or Mozzarella Cheese Cheddar or pepper jack are great substitutes.
  • 2 cups Shredded Iceberg Lettuce Arugula or spinach can be used for a different twist.
  • 1/2 cup Banana Peppers Substitute with giardiniera or jalapeños for added heat.
  • 1 medium Red Onion Green onions can be used for a milder flavor.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Grape tomatoes can be used or omitted.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt makes a healthier alternative.
  • 2 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar Apple cider vinegar is a fine substitute.
  • 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning Dried herbs like basil and oregano may also be used.
  • 2 tbsp Banana Pepper Brine Optional for added flavor in the dressing.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Medium bowl
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Spatula

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add the rotini pasta. Cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. Chop the salami, deli ham, and provolone or mozzarella cheese into bite-sized pieces. Slice the red onion, halve the cherry tomatoes, and chop the iceberg lettuce.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, and optional banana pepper brine. Whisk until smooth.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, chopped meats, cheese, vegetables, and the dressing. Toss gently.
  5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30-60 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Serve chilled, stirring gently before serving and add lettuce just before serving for extra crispness.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 15gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Store the salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days, keeping lettuce separate until serving. Can freeze without dressing for up to 2 months.

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