Description
This creamy Italian grinder pasta salad is loaded with deli meats, crisp veggies, and a tangy, zesty dressing. Inspired by the viral grinder sandwich, this easy pasta salad is perfect for potlucks, BBQs, and meal prep.
Ingredients
For the Pasta Salad
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12 oz rotini pasta
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1 ½ cups shredded iceberg lettuce
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
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½ cup banana peppers, sliced
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½ cup pepperoncini, sliced
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½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Meats
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½ cup salami, chopped
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½ cup pepperoni, chopped
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½ cup deli ham, chopped
For the Creamy Grinder Dressing
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¾ cup mayonnaise
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2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook rotini according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water until completely cooled. -
Make the Dressing
In a glass bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes until smooth and creamy. -
Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, add cooled pasta, shredded lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, banana peppers, pepperoncini, mozzarella, salami, pepperoni, and ham. -
Add Dressing
Pour the creamy grinder dressing over the top of the ingredients. -
Toss & Combine
Gently toss everything together until evenly coated. -
Chill & Serve
Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Notes
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Add lettuce just before serving for maximum crunch
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Chop everything small for authentic grinder texture
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Letting it chill enhances flavor
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Add extra dressing if making ahead
- Prep Time: 15 MINUTES
- Cook Time: 10 MINUTES
- Category: Dinner, Lunch, Side Dish, SIDE DISH | PASTA SALAD
- Method: STOVETOP
- Cuisine: American, AMERICAN | BBQ | SUMMER