Italian Grinder Pasta Salad

Italian Grinder Pasta Salad is a vibrant and hearty dish that brings together the bold flavors of an Italian grinder sandwich in a refreshing pasta salad form. Combining tender pasta with savory deli meats, creamy cheeses, and tangy pickled vegetables, this salad is tossed in a zesty dressing that captures the essence of a classic Italian sub. Perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or as a satisfying main dish, this pasta salad offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors that will leave everyone craving more.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 16 oz short pasta (such as vesuvio or campanelle)

• 4 oz salami, diced

• 4 oz pepperoni, diced

• 4 oz provolone cheese, cubed

• 4 oz mozzarella cheese, cubed

• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• ½ cup sliced pepperoncini peppers

• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced

• 1 cup romaine lettuce, shredded

• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

For the Dressing:

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  
  

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients: While the pasta is cooling, prepare the salad ingredients. Dice the salami and pepperoni, cube the cheeses, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the pepperoncini peppers and red onion, and chop the fresh basil.

3. Make the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and well combined.

4. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the prepared salad ingredients. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

5. Add Lettuce and Basil: Just before serving, fold in the shredded romaine lettuce and chopped fresh basil to maintain their crispness and vibrant color.

6. Serve: Transfer the pasta salad to a serving dish and garnish with additional basil leaves if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
   
   

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 450 kcal

• Protein: 15g

• Carbohydrates: 40g

• Fat: 25g

• Sodium: 900mg

• Cholesterol: 40mg

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 3g