Italian Grinder Pasta Salad

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This Italian Grinder Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleaser that combines bold flavors and fresh ingredients for a satisfying dish.

It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick weeknight meal.

• Packed with savory Italian meats, cheeses, and crisp veggies for a hearty bite.
• Tossed in a zesty homemade dressing that ties all the flavors together.
• Easy to make ahead and stays fresh, making it ideal for meal prep or gatherings.

Recipe

This Italian Grinder Pasta Salad combines the bold flavors of a classic Italian grinder sandwich with the invigorating ease of a pasta salad.

It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a hearty weeknight meal, offering a satisfying mix of textures and tastes.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz pasta (rotini or penne works well)
• 1 cup diced salami
• 1 cup diced ham
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup Italian dressing
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, salami, ham, mozzarella cheese, cherry tomatoes, pepperoncini peppers, black olives, and red onion.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, mayonnaise, and dried oregano.
4. Pour the dressing mixture over the pasta and toss until everything is well coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Notes:

• For a spicier version, add extra pepperoncini peppers or a dash of red pepper flakes.
• This salad can be made a day ahead, making it a convenient option for gatherings.

Time:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling)

Servings: 6

Calories: 450 per serving

Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

This Italian Grinder Pasta Salad is a flavorful and satisfying dish. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content per serving:

What To Serve With It

When I serve Italian Grinder Pasta Salad, I always grab some fresh, crusty bread like ciabatta or focaccia to soak up the dressing.

A glass of crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio, or a light red, like Chianti, pairs perfectly with the bold flavors.

You’ll find it’s a match made in Italian food heaven!

Fresh Bread Options

Nothing completes a hearty Italian Grinder Pasta Salad like a slice of fresh, warm bread right from the oven.

I love pairing it with artisan loaf options, like a crusty sourdough or a soft rosemary focaccia, which soak up the salad’s flavors perfectly.

Ciabatta variations are another favorite—whether it’s plain, garlic-infused, or studded with olives, they add a delightful crunch and texture.

I often grab a loaf from my local bakery, but baking your own can be just as rewarding.

Trust me, tearing into a warm piece of bread alongside this salad feels like a cozy Italian feast at home.

Wine Pairings Selection

While fresh bread adds the perfect touch to this Italian Grinder Pasta Salad, let’s not forget about what’s in your glass.

When it comes to wine selection tips, I always lean towards something that balances the bold flavors of the dish. A light, crisp Pinot Grigio works wonders, cutting through the richness of the meats and cheese.

If you prefer red, try a Chianti—its acidity pairs beautifully with the tangy dressing. My food pairing advice? Keep it simple and let the wine complement, not overpower, the salad.

Cheers to a meal that’s as delightful as it’s delicious!