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Italian Grinder Pasta Salad

Italian Grinder Pasta Salad: Your New Favorite Potluck Dish

This Italian Grinder Pasta Salad is a vibrant, crowd-pleasing blend of flavors perfect for potlucks and gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces Rotini Pasta Gluten-free pasta makes a great substitution.
For the Meats
  • 6 ounces Sliced Pepperoni Turkey pepperoni is a leaner alternative.
  • 4 ounces Chopped Salami Feel free to swap for turkey or chicken slices.
  • 4 ounces Chopped Ham Omit for a vegetarian version.
For the Vegetables
  • 2 cups Shredded Iceberg Lettuce Romaine can be used for sturdier texture.
  • 1 cup Sliced Red Onions Green onions provide a milder flavor.
  • 1 cup Sliced Banana Peppers Opt for diced jalapeños for heat.
  • 1 cup Sliced Black Olives Omit if you prefer less intense flavor.
  • 1 cup Chopped Tomatoes Cherry tomatoes are a delightful swap.
For the Cheese
  • 1 cup Shredded Provolone Cheese Mozzarella or feta makes a lovely alternative.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast can be used for dairy-free.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt offers a lighter version.
  • 2 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar Lemon juice can replace it for a fresh twist.
  • 3 tablespoons Olive Oil Avocado oil is a great substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning Mix equal parts dried oregano and basil if needed.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust amounts to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust amounts to taste.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • spatula
  • whisk
  • Airtight Container

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water for 8-10 minutes until al dente, then drain and cool.
  2. Combine pasta with sliced pepperoni, chopped salami, and chopped ham in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Add chopped tomatoes, shredded iceberg lettuce, sliced red onions, sliced banana peppers, and sliced black olives to the bowl and stir gently.
  4. Whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper in a separate bowl until creamy.
  5. Pour dressing over the pasta and meat mixture; toss to coat evenly.
  6. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  7. Serve cold, garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 15gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 20gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Perfect for potlucks and gatherings, flavors improve as it sits for a day or two.

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