Description
Craving something bold, creamy, and bursting with flavor? This Italian Grinder Salad is your next go-to meal. It transforms the beloved deli-style grinder sandwich into a crave-worthy pasta salad perfect for lunchboxes, potlucks, or quick dinners. With tender pasta, zesty pepperoncini, juicy cherry tomatoes, and hearty slices of Italian meats all coated in a creamy herbed dressing, it’s the ultimate in easy recipe and dinner ideas. Whether you’re searching for a satisfying healthy snack, quick lunch, or delicious food ideas for your next gathering—this one ticks every box.
Ingredients
12 oz pasta (cavatappi or rotini)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup pepperoncini slices
1/3 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup arugula or shredded romaine
1/2 cup cubed provolone cheese
1/2 cup cubed mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup salami, sliced into strips
1/2 cup pepperoni, sliced into halves
1/2 cup ham, sliced into strips
3/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
Optional: pinch of sugar
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Chill until ready.
3. Slice cherry tomatoes, pepperoncini, and onions. Cube cheeses and cut deli meats into strips or bite-sized pieces.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, meats, cheeses, and veggies. Pour in half the dressing and mix. Add more as needed.
5. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Stir before serving. Sprinkle with Parmesan and black pepper if desired.
Notes
1. Chill the pasta before mixing to maintain texture and avoid sogginess.
2. This salad is best after sitting in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
3. To refresh leftovers, stir in a spoonful of mayo or olive oil before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: Italian pasta salad, grinder salad, deli pasta, potluck pasta, easy dinner