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Italian Grinder Pasta Salad

Delicious Italian Grinder Pasta Salad for Perfect Picnics

Enjoy a vibrant Italian Grinder Pasta Salad, capturing all the bold flavors of a classic Italian sub, perfect for picnics and gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 cups short pasta (rotini or penne) Provides structure and absorbs dressing
For the Meats
  • 4 oz salami Adds savory richness
  • 4 oz pepperoni Offers additional spice
For the Cheese
  • 4 oz provolone cheese Contributes creaminess
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes Introduces freshness and color
  • 2 cups shredded lettuce Adds crispness
  • 1/2 cup red onion Provides a sharp bite
  • 1/4 cup banana peppers Gives a tangy kick
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise Delivers creaminess
  • 1/4 cup Italian dressing Brings tang
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar Sharpens flavors
  • 1 tsp dried oregano For authentic Italian flavor
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper Adds mild heat

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • mixing bowl
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add short pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a spacious mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Italian dressing, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, and black pepper. Whisk together until smooth and creamy.
  3. Add the cooled, drained pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently until every piece is thoroughly coated.
  4. Carefully fold in the salami, pepperoni, provolone cheese, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and banana peppers. Combine gently.
  5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Just before serving, add the shredded lettuce and toss gently for a delightful crunch.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Letting the salad sit allows flavors to meld. Always add lettuce just before serving for freshness.

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