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Homemade Italian Grinder Pasta Salad with spiral pasta, tomatoes, lettuce, and bacon, topped with Parmesan and creamy dressing.

Italian Grinder Pasta Salad

A delicious twist on the classic Italian Grinder Pasta Salad, now in pasta salad form with bold flavors.
5 from 1 vote
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Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Italian
Keyword: Italian grinder, Italian Grinder Pasta Salad, Italian sandwich pasta, pasta salad, summer salad
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 10
Calories: 485kcal
Cost: $15

Ingredients

  • 16 ounces penne pasta Any medium-sized pasta such as penne or rigatoni works well
  • ½ cup mayonnaise For a creamy base
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar For a tangy zesty flavor
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic Adds savory depth
  • 1 teaspoon sugar Balances acidity
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano Gives an earthy herbal note
  • ½ teaspoon salt To enhance all the flavors
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper For a bit of spice
  • ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese Use fresh for the best flavor
  • 4 ounces shredded iceberg lettuce About 2-3 cups provides crunch and freshness
  • 4 ounces ham Thinly sliced offers a salty savory base
  • 4 ounces pepperoni Adds a spicy bold flavor
  • 4 ounces salami Brings a rich meaty taste
  • 4 ounces provolone cheese Sliced or cubed for easy mixing
  • 1 pint grape tomatoes halved Juicy and sweet for balance
  • ½ cup sliced pepperoncini peppers Adds tangy pickled heat
  • ½ red onion finely diced For a crisp sharp taste

Instructions

  • Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool the pasta. Drain again.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, sugar, oregano, salt, black pepper, and grated parmesan cheese until smooth.
  • Slice the ham, pepperoni, and salami into ¼-inch slices. Cut the provolone into thin slices or small cubes.
  • In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded lettuce, meats, cheese, grape tomatoes, pepperoncini peppers, and diced red onion.
  • Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Notes

This vibrant pasta salad brings together all the flavors of a classic Italian grinder sandwich in an easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a crowd or a summer meal. For best results, chop everything into small pieces for maximum flavor in every bite!

Nutrition

Serving: 250g | Calories: 485kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 21g | Fat: 39g | Saturated Fat: 13g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 11g | Monounsaturated Fat: 13g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 69mg | Sodium: 1515mg | Potassium: 561mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 1287IU | Vitamin C: 22mg | Calcium: 236mg | Iron: 2mg