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Italian Grinder Pasta Salad

Italian Grinder Pasta Salad
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This easy Italian Grinder Pasta Salad brings all the beloved flavors of a classic deli sub into a refreshing and satisfying pasta dish. Packed with savory meats, cheeses, crisp vegetables, and a zesty Italian dressing, it’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a delicious weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 oz (450g) rotini or fusilli pasta
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp dried basil
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 4 oz (113g) sliced pepperoni, quartered
  • 4 oz (113g) sliced salami, quartered
  • 4 oz (113g) sliced deli ham, diced
  • 4 oz (113g) provolone cheese, cubed
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced or finely diced
  • 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup sliced black olives
  • 1/4 cup sliced banana peppers (optional)
  • 2 cups chopped romaine or iceberg lettuce

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool completely. Set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, prepare the dressing. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Add the quartered pepperoni, salami, diced ham, cubed provolone cheese, halved cherry tomatoes, red onion, green bell pepper, black olives, and banana peppers (if using).
  4. Gently toss all ingredients until evenly combined and coated with the dressing.
  5. Just before serving, fold in the chopped romaine or iceberg lettuce.
  6. Chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold.

Notes

For an extra kick, add a pinch more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing. You can also customize the meats and cheeses to your preference, or add grilled chicken for more protein!

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