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Italian Grinder Pasta Salad

Italian Grinder Pasta Salad: A Flavorful 30-Minute Wonder

This Italian Grinder Pasta Salad is a deliciously simple blend of savory meats, crunchy vegetables, and creamy dressing, ready in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 pound Pasta (rotini, penne, or shells) Any short pasta shape works great.
  • 1/4 cup Salami, thinly sliced Capicola or bologna can be used as substitutes.
  • 1/4 cup Pepperoni Try turkey pepperoni for a lighter version.
  • 1/4 cup Provolone Cheese, chopped Mozzarella or Gouda can be alternatives.
  • 1/4 cup Red Onion, finely chopped Green onions can be used for a milder flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Black Olives, sliced Green olives can be used for a fresh twist.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Italian Dressing Choose high-quality dressing for the best taste.
  • 1/4 cup Mayonnaise Sour cream is a tangy substitute option.
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese, freshly grated Pecorino Romano offers a sharper taste.
  • Salt and Black Pepper Season to taste.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • mixing bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add pasta, and cook until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Prepare the Dressing: In a mixing bowl, combine Italian dressing, mayonnaise, and Parmesan cheese. Whisk until smooth.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Add cooled pasta, salami, pepperoni, provolone, red onion, and olives to the dressing. Toss gently until well mixed.
  4. Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  5. Final Adjustments and Serving: Stir salad before serving, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve chilled.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 180mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Customize with fresh herbs, cherry tomatoes, or pepperoncini for extra flavor. Use high-quality ingredients for best results.

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