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Italian Grinder Pasta Salad

Italian Grinder Pasta Salad
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Italian Grinder Pasta Salad is a vibrant, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish combining the savory taste of Italian deli meats, creamy mozzarella, hearty pasta, and fresh vegetables tossed in a zesty Italian dressing. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or casual meals, this salad offers a satisfying crunch and tangy zing that delights every guest and can be customized to suit various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 12 oz small pasta shapes like rotini or penne

Italian Deli Meats

  • 4 oz salami, chopped
  • 4 oz ham, chopped
  • 4 oz pepperoni, chopped

Cheese

  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella, cubed

Fresh Vegetables

  • 1 cup bell peppers, diced (assorted colors)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup cucumbers, diced

Other Add-ins

  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/4 cup pepperoncini, sliced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped

Italian Dressing

  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme mix)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Begin by boiling your chosen pasta shapes according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking and cool it down for the salad.
  2. Prepare the ingredients: While the pasta cooks, chop your Italian deli meats, mozzarella, and fresh vegetables into bite-sized pieces to ensure a balanced mix in every bite.
  3. Mix the dressing: Combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper in a bowl to create a homemade Italian dressing, or use your favorite store-bought version.
  4. Combine everything: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled pasta, chopped meats, cheese, vegetables, olives, pepperoncini, and fresh herbs. Pour the dressing over the top and stir gently yet thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly.
  5. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the Italian Grinder Pasta Salad for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld beautifully before serving.

Notes

  • Cook pasta perfectly: Avoid overcooking pasta to keep the salad from becoming mushy.
  • Chill time matters: Letting the salad rest in the fridge enhances the flavor meld.
  • Use quality meats: Fresh, good-quality Italian deli meats make a noticeable difference.
  • Dice uniformly: Cut ingredients into similar sizes for even texture and presentation.
  • Customize the dressing: Adjust acidity or sweetness to your taste for the perfect tang.
  • Serve chilled or at room temperature for best freshness and crunch.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days.
  • Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in pasta and vegetables.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian grinder pasta salad, pasta salad recipe, party salad, Italian deli meats, easy pasta salad, potluck dish, make ahead salad

Find it online: https://cherrycooks.com/italian-grinder-pasta-salad/