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Italian Grinder Pasta Salad

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Italian Grinder Pasta Salad combines the bold, zesty flavors of an Italian sub sandwich with pasta salad for a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish. It’s loaded with deli meats, cheese, crisp veggies, and a creamy Italian-style dressing.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz pasta (rotini, penne, or your choice)
  • 1 cup salami, sliced or chopped
  • 1 cup deli ham, sliced or chopped
  • 1 cup provolone cheese, cubed or shredded
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup banana peppers, sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup romaine or iceberg lettuce, shredded
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dressing:

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine salami, ham, provolone, red onion, banana peppers, cherry tomatoes, and shredded lettuce.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes until smooth.
  4. Add the cooled pasta to the meat and veggie mixture.
  5. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss until evenly coated.
  6. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste.
  7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Wait to add lettuce until just before serving for best texture.
  • Customize with additional toppings like olives, cucumbers, or roasted red peppers.
  • Use tortellini for a fun twist.
  • If salad dries out after chilling, refresh with a splash of olive oil or extra dressing.
  • Great for meal prep or potlucks—flavors improve as it sits.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/italian-grinder-pasta-salad/