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+ servings
Grinder Pasta Salad

Grinder Pasta Salad That's Bursting with Flavor and Freshness

This Grinder Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the classic tastes of an Italian grinder sandwich into a refreshing salad.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 pound Rotini or Penne pasta Gluten-free pasta works well if needed
For the Meats
  • 1 cup Beef-Based Deli Meats Varieties like salami, ham, or pepperoni
For the Cheese
  • 1 cup Sharp Provolone or Mozzarella cheese Dairy-free options can be substituted
For the Fresh Vegetables
  • 1 cup Bell Peppers
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes
  • 1 cup Red Onion
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Herby Vinaigrette Made with olive oil, vinegar, oregano, and Italian seasoning
For the Lettuce (optional)
  • 2 cups Romaine or Mixed Salad Greens

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • colander
  • Medium bowl
  • large mixing bowl
  • plastic wrap

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your rotini or penne pasta, then cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water, then set aside to cool completely.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta cools, chop your fresh vegetables. Dice bell peppers, halved cherry tomatoes, and red onion into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Mix the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the herby vinaigrette ingredients: olive oil, vinegar, oregano, and Italian seasoning until well-emulsified.
  4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped deli meats, cheese, and vegetables. Drizzle the vinaigrette over and toss gently to coat.
  5. Add Lettuce: If using, chop lettuce and fold gently into the pasta mixture.
  6. Chill Before Serving: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 15gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes. Keep vegetables uniform in size for even mixing.

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