Italian grinder pasta salad: It’s the picnic pasta salad of my dreams come true. It’s piled high with all the very best ingredients found in an Italian grinder sandwich, tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, and ready to become your new favorite potluck dish. If you love a good Italian sub, you’re going to obsess over this Italian grinder pasta salad! It’s the perfect way to transform a classic sandwich into a crowd pleasing pasta salad, and even better? There’s no cooking required!
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This recipe brings back so many happy memories of summer barbecues and family gatherings. It’s always a hit, and I can’t wait for you to try this italian grinder pasta salad.
Why You Will Love This italian grinder pasta salad Recipe
This italian grinder pasta salad recipe is a total winner for so many reasons. First, the flavor is OUTSTANDING! Think of your favorite Italian sub, but in pasta salad form. Salty salami, tangy provolone, crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and a zesty dressing combine to create a flavor explosion in your mouth.
It’s incredibly easy and quick to make. No need to spend hours in the kitchen. Just chop, toss, and chill! This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a dish to pass at a moment’s notice. Plus, it’s easily customizable. You can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Want it spicier? Add more pepperoncini! Prefer a different cheese? Go for it!
This pasta salad is a real crowd pleaser. It’s perfect for potlucks, barbecues, picnics, or any gathering where you need a delicious and satisfying dish. Everyone always raves about it! Also, it transports well. No need to worry about keeping it warm. Just toss it in a container and you’re good to go. Did I mention it tastes even better the next day? The flavors meld together beautifully as it chills. This recipe perfectly captures the flavor of a classic Italian sub. If you’re craving that taste without the bread, this pasta salad is the answer.
Another advantage? It is a unique and unexpected dish that will definitely impress your friends and family. Step aside, ordinary potato salad! This will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection. I promise, this italian grinder pasta salad is about to become your new go to recipe!
Ingredients Needed for This italian grinder pasta salad Recipe
- 1 pound rotini pasta
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces provolone cheese, cubed
- 8 ounces salami, sliced and chopped
- 4 ounces ham, sliced and chopped
- 1/2 cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, halved
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 4 cups iceberg lettuce, shredded
How to Make This italian grinder pasta salad Recipe
- 1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water. This stops the cooking process and prevents the pasta from sticking together.
- 2. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, oregano, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. This is your flavorful dressing for the italian grinder pasta salad!
- 3. Add the cooked pasta, provolone cheese, salami, ham, pepperoncini peppers, Kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, and red onion to the bowl with the dressing.
- 4. Gently toss everything together until well combined, taking care not to overmix it.
- 5. Stir in the shredded iceberg lettuce just before serving to prevent it from wilting. It adds a nice crunch!
- 6. Cover the bowl and chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This will make a huge difference in taste.
- 7. Before serving, give the pasta salad another gentle toss.
- 8. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or red wine vinegar to your liking.
- 9. Enjoy this delicious italian grinder pasta salad! Serve it cold and watch everyone devour it.
How to Serve This italian grinder pasta salad Recipe
This italian grinder pasta salad is incredibly versatile and can be served in many ways. For a casual lunch or dinner, simply serve it as a main course alongside some crusty bread and a side salad. It’s also a fantastic potluck dish. Bring it to your next barbecue or picnic and watch it disappear. Feel free to pair it with other grilled or chilled items for a satisfying outdoor meal.
For a more elegant presentation, try serving it in individual bowls or on a platter garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil. You can also add a drizzle of extra olive oil and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a gourmet touch. It is also suitable as a side dish. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or burgers for a complete meal. The zesty flavors complement a variety of main courses, even something like our Dense Bean Salad Recipe.
How to Store This italian grinder pasta salad Recipe
To store any leftover italian grinder pasta salad, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it. Ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent the pasta from drying out or absorbing odors from the refrigerator.
Properly stored, this pasta salad will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 4 days. Keep in mind that the lettuce may lose some of its crispness over time, but the flavors will only intensify!
Freezing is not recommended, as the mayonnaise in the dressing may separate and the lettuce will become soggy upon thawing. When ready to enjoy, simply remove it from the refrigerator and give it a gentle toss to redistribute the dressing and ingredients. If it seems a bit dry, you can add a splash of olive oil or red wine vinegar to refresh it.
Tips to Make This italian grinder pasta salad Recipe
To ensure the best italian grinder pasta salad, be sure to cook the pasta al dente. This means it should be firm to the bite, not mushy. Overcooked pasta will make the salad soggy. Rinsing the cooked pasta with cold water is crucial. It stops the cooking process and removes excess starch, preventing the pasta from sticking together.
Don’t be afraid to customize the ingredients to your liking! If you prefer a different cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, feel free to substitute it. You can also add or substitute other vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or artichoke hearts.
If you want to make the salad ahead of time, prepare everything except the lettuce. Add the lettuce just before serving to prevent it from wilting. Season generously! The flavors will mellow as the salad sits, so be sure to season it well with salt, pepper, and herbs. A little extra red wine vinegar can also brighten up the flavors. Thinking about elevating your salads? Try our Heart Shaped Caprese Salad, too.
Helpful Notes for This italian grinder pasta salad Recipe
For the best flavor, use high quality ingredients. Good quality salami, provolone, and olive oil will make a big difference. If you can’t find pepperoncini peppers, you can substitute with banana peppers or pickled jalapenos for a similar tangy flavor.
Kalamata olives add a briny flavor to the salad. If you don’t like them, you can substitute with green olives or simply omit them. You can shred the lettuce using a knife, but using a lettuce knife will keep your lettuce from browning. The dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be sure to whisk it well before adding it to the pasta salad.
Follow us on Pinterest for more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration!Variation of This italian grinder pasta salad Recipe
For a vegetarian version, omit the salami and ham and add more cheese or grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers.
For a spicier version, add more red pepper flakes to the dressing or use spicy salami. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat. If you want to add a touch of sweetness, try adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the dressing.
To make this italian grinder pasta salad gluten free, use gluten free pasta. There are many great gluten free pasta options available today. If you’re looking for a lighter pasta salad, use whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrients. You can also add some chickpeas or white beans for extra protein.
What is Italian grinder pasta salad?
Italian grinder pasta salad is a cold pasta salad inspired by Italian grinder sandwiches. It combines pasta with typical Italian deli ingredients like salami, provolone, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing.
What ingredients are in Italian grinder pasta salad?
Common ingredients include pasta (rotini or bowtie work well), salami, provolone cheese, shredded lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, pepperoncini, and a vinaigrette dressing made with olive oil, vinegar, and Italian seasonings.
How long does Italian grinder pasta salad last?
Italian grinder pasta salad typically lasts for 3-5 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container. The dressing may separate slightly, so it’s best to give it a good stir before serving.
Can I make Italian grinder pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, Italian grinder pasta salad is a great make-ahead dish. In fact, it often tastes better after the flavors have had a chance to meld together in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.
What kind of dressing is used in Italian grinder pasta salad?
The dressing is usually a vinaigrette, commonly made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic, and a touch of Dijon mustard or mayonnaise for added creaminess. Some recipes also include a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity.
Conclusion
This italian grinder pasta salad is a guaranteed crowd pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, customizable, and bursting with flavor. Give this Italian grinder pasta salad recipe a try and let me know what you think in the comments below. Don’t forget to share it with your friends and family, and visit www.makourirecipes.com for even more great recipes!
