Italian Grinder Pasta Salad 

Inspired by the classic Italian grinder sandwich, this pasta salad combines all the beloved sandwich ingredients into a refreshing, shareable dish. Loaded with deli meats, cheeses, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs, it's tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing that brings everything together. Perfect for summer gatherings, BBQs, or meal prep, this salad offers a hearty and flavorful option that's both satisfying and easy to make.

 Ingredients 

For the Salad:

• 1 pound rotini or campanelle pasta, cooked and cooled

• 8 ounces mozzarella pearls or mini mozzarella balls

• 6 ounces provolone cheese, diced

• 2½ ounces hard salami, diced

• 2½ ounces pepperoni, diced

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup red onion, thinly sliced and soaked in ice water for 10 minutes

• ½ cup sliced pepperoncini peppers

• 1 cup romaine lettuce, thinly sliced

• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, thinly sliced

• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  
  

For the Dressing:

• ¾ cup mayonnaise

• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

• 1–2 cloves garlic, grated

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

 Directions

1. Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, grated garlic, dried oregano, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) until smooth.

2. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta, mozzarella pearls, diced provolone cheese, diced salami, diced pepperoni, halved cherry tomatoes, soaked and drained red onion slices, sliced pepperoncini peppers, sliced romaine lettuce, and fresh basil.

3. Add the Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.

4. Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Just before serving, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and give the salad a final gentle toss.

 Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 306 kcal

• Protein: 12 g

• Carbohydrates: 24 g

• Fat: 18 g

• Saturated Fat: 6 g

• Cholesterol: 26 mg

• Sodium: 357 mg

• Potassium: 184 mg

• Fiber: 1 g

• Sugar: 2 g

• Vitamin A: 319 IU

• Vitamin C: 8 mg

• Calcium: 161 mg

• Iron: 1 mg