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Homemade Italian Grinder Pasta Salad with spiral pasta, tomatoes, lettuce, and bacon, topped with Parmesan and creamy dressing.

Italian Grinder Pasta Salad

5 from 1 vote
A delicious twist on the classic Italian Grinder Pasta Salad, now in pasta salad form with bold flavors.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 10
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 485
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 16 ounces penne pasta Any medium-sized pasta such as penne or rigatoni works well
  • ½ cup mayonnaise For a creamy base
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar For a tangy zesty flavor
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic Adds savory depth
  • 1 teaspoon sugar Balances acidity
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano Gives an earthy herbal note
  • ½ teaspoon salt To enhance all the flavors
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper For a bit of spice
  • ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese Use fresh for the best flavor
  • 4 ounces shredded iceberg lettuce About 2-3 cups provides crunch and freshness
  • 4 ounces ham Thinly sliced offers a salty savory base
  • 4 ounces pepperoni Adds a spicy bold flavor
  • 4 ounces salami Brings a rich meaty taste
  • 4 ounces provolone cheese Sliced or cubed for easy mixing
  • 1 pint grape tomatoes halved Juicy and sweet for balance
  • ½ cup sliced pepperoncini peppers Adds tangy pickled heat
  • ½ red onion finely diced For a crisp sharp taste

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool the pasta. Drain again.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, sugar, oregano, salt, black pepper, and grated parmesan cheese until smooth.
  3. Slice the ham, pepperoni, and salami into ¼-inch slices. Cut the provolone into thin slices or small cubes.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded lettuce, meats, cheese, grape tomatoes, pepperoncini peppers, and diced red onion.
  5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Nutrition

Serving: 250gCalories: 485kcalCarbohydrates: 13gProtein: 21gFat: 39gSaturated Fat: 13gPolyunsaturated Fat: 11gMonounsaturated Fat: 13gTrans Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 69mgSodium: 1515mgPotassium: 561mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1287IUVitamin C: 22mgCalcium: 236mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This vibrant pasta salad brings together all the flavors of a classic Italian grinder sandwich in an easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a crowd or a summer meal. For best results, chop everything into small pieces for maximum flavor in every bite!

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