This Italian Grinder Pasta Salad is a colorful mix of pasta, fresh veggies, and tasty meats, all tossed with a zesty dressing. It’s perfect for picnics or quick lunches!
I love how easy it is to make. Just cook the pasta, chop the goodies, and mix everything together. Plus, it gets better after sitting a bit, so it’s a win for meal prep!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This variety is great because it holds dressing well. If you don’t have penne, feel free to use rotini, fusilli, or any other pasta shape you like. Just make sure it’s a shape that can hold toppings!
Salami, Pepperoni, and Ham: These cold cuts add a hearty flavor. If you’re looking for lighter options, turkey or chicken deli meat works fine, or you could skip meat altogether for a vegetarian version and use more veggies or chickpeas.
Provolone Cheese: A nice melty cheese choice! If you can’t find provolone, mozzarella or Gouda make excellent substitutes. For a dairy-free option, try a plant-based cheese.
Pepperoncini: These peppers add a nice tang. If you can’t find them, sliced jalapeños are a spicier alternative, or you could use diced pickles for a different kind of zing.
Mayonnaise: I love mayo for creaminess, but Greek yogurt is a healthy swap. You can also use a vinegar-based dressing if you’re trying to cut calories.
How Do I Ensure My Pasta Salad Has the Best Flavor?
Flavor balance is key in a pasta salad. Starts with perfectly cooked pasta, which should be al dente. After cooking, rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking and cool it down quickly.
- In a large bowl, mix your meats, veggies, and cheese first.
- In a separate bowl, combine your dressing ingredients until smooth. Pour this over your pasta mix.
- Toss gently but thoroughly so everything is coated; this helps the flavors meld.
- Refrigerate for at least an hour! This step is crucial as it allows the ingredients to soak up the dressing.
How to Make Italian Grinder Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup diced salami
- 1 cup diced pepperoni
- 1 cup diced ham
- ½ cup diced provolone cheese
- ½ cup chopped green bell pepper
- ½ cup chopped red onion
- ½ cup sliced pepperoncini
- ½ cup black olives, sliced
Dressing Ingredients:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Italian dressing
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare and should be refrigerated for at least 1 hour to let the flavors combine. In total, you’ll need around 1 hour and 20 minutes before serving. Perfect for gatherings or a refreshing meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain it and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set the cooled pasta aside for later.
2. Prepare the Meats and Veggies:
In a large bowl, add the diced salami, pepperoni, ham, and provolone cheese. Then, toss in the chopped green bell pepper, red onion, sliced pepperoncini, and black olives. Give it a good stir to mix everything together.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, Italian dressing, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined. This dressing is what brings all the flavors together!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the cooled pasta into the bowl with the meats and veggies. Drizzle the dressing mixture over the top. Gently toss everything together until each piece is nicely coated in the dressing.
5. Final Touches:
Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Once you’re happy with it, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let all the flavors meld together. You can serve this salad chilled or at room temperature—it’s tasty either way!
Can I Substitute Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any short pasta like rotini, fusilli, or farfalle if you prefer. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions to achieve the perfect al dente texture!
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or a mayo substitute, try Greek yogurt or sour cream. You can also use a vegan mayonnaise for a dairy-free alternative. Adjust the other ingredients slightly to maintain consistency and flavor.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen over time, but the veggies may lose some crunch. To refresh it, consider adding a splash more dressing before serving!
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or even artichoke hearts for more flavor and texture. Just make sure to keep the overall balance of the salad so it doesn’t become too watery.
