Grinder Pasta Salad
A bold and hearty pasta salad inspired by the classic Italian grinder sandwich, packed with deli meats, cheeses, crisp veggies, and a tangy creamy dressing. Perfect for cookouts, potlucks, or quick family meals.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rotini or penne pasta
- 1 cup diced deli meats (turkey, ham, salami)
- 1 cup diced provolone or mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 0.5 cup diced red onion
- 0.5 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 0.5 cup sliced pepperoncini or banana peppers
- 0.5 cup mayonnaise
- 0.25 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder
- to taste salt and pepper
- 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool and stop cooking. Set aside.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced deli meats, diced cheese, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and sliced pepperoncini.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently but thoroughly until everything is well coated.
- Fold in the shredded iceberg lettuce just before serving to keep it crisp and fresh.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve cold, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition
Serving: 1peopleCalories: 430kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 16gFat: 27gSaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 850mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4g
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