This vibrant pasta salad transforms the flavors of an Italian grinder sandwich into a delightful dish perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a satisfying weeknight meal. Combining hearty deli meats, cheeses, crisp vegetables, and a creamy, tangy dressing, it offers a refreshing twist on a classic favorite.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 8 oz rotini pasta (or any medium-sized pasta)

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup roasted red peppers, chopped

• ⅓ cup pepperoncini peppers, chopped

• ⅓ cup red onion, thinly sliced

• ½ cup salami, thinly sliced

• ½ cup pepperoni, thinly sliced

• 1 (15.5 oz) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained

• 8 oz mini mozzarella balls or fresh mozzarella, diced

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 cups shredded lettuce (iceberg or romaine)

For the Dressing:

• ¼ cup olive oil

• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 2 teaspoons salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, mayonnaise, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

3. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, pepperoncini peppers, red onion, salami, pepperoni, chickpeas, mozzarella balls, and grated Parmesan cheese.

4. Add the Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are well coated.

5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld. Just before serving, stir in the shredded lettuce to maintain its crispness.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 682 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 69 g

• Protein: 30 g

• Fat: 32 g

  • Saturated Fat: 11 g

  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 4 g

  • Monounsaturated Fat: 14 g

  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g

• Cholesterol: 55 mg

• Sodium: 1,870 mg

• Potassium: 617 mg

• Fiber: 9 g

• Sugar: 7 g

• Vitamin A: 744 IU

• Vitamin C: 26 mg

• Calcium: 344 mg

• Iron: 4 mg