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Italian Grinder Pasta Salad

Italian Grinder Pasta Salad: Refresh Your Next Potluck!

Discover the vibrant flavors of Italian Grinder Pasta Salad, a customizable dish perfect for potlucks and meal prep.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Salad
  • 8 oz Rotini Pasta Use gluten-free pasta for gluten-free option.
  • 4 oz Sliced Pepperoni Can replace with turkey or chicken slices.
  • 4 oz Chopped Salami Can be omitted or substituted with another deli meat.
  • 4 oz Chopped Ham Use cooked chicken for a different flavor.
  • 2 cups Shredded Iceberg Lettuce Substitute with romaine or mixed greens.
  • 1 cup Sliced Red Onions Use green onions for a milder taste.
  • 1/2 cup Sliced Banana Peppers Optional for more crunch; omit for milder salad.
  • 1/2 cup Sliced Black Olives Substitute with green olives or skip if not a fan.
  • 1 cup Chopped Tomatoes Substitute with cherry tomatoes for a sweeter option.
  • 4 oz Shredded Provolone Cheese Swap for mozzarella or feta for a different taste.
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Substitute with Greek yogurt for lighter option.
  • 3 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar White wine vinegar or lemon juice can be used instead.
  • 1/2 cup Olive Oil Any neutral oil can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning Use a mix of dried herbs like oregano and basil.
  • to taste Salt & Black Pepper Adjust based on preference.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • whisk
  • colander

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow the pasta to cool completely.
  3. In a mixing bowl, add the cooled rotini pasta along with sliced pepperoni, chopped salami, diced ham, shredded iceberg lettuce, sliced red onions, banana peppers, black olives, chopped tomatoes, shredded provolone and grated parmesan. Gently mix all ingredients together.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
  5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss everything together until evenly coated. Make sure the pasta absorbs the flavors.
  6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
  7. Give the salad a good stir before serving. Garnish with additional parmesan cheese or freshly chopped herbs if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 12gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 8mg

Notes

Ensure the pasta is completely cool before mixing to prevent a watery dressing. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

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