Easy Italian Grinder Pasta Salad Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Penne Pasta: This shape is ideal for holding the dressing and other ingredients. If you don’t have penne, any short pasta like fusilli or rotini works great. Gluten-free pasta is also a solid option!

Cured Meats: This recipe calls for salami, ham, and pepperoni, but feel free to switch it up! Turkey or chicken deli meat are lighter alternatives, and for a vegetarian twist, try marinated tofu or chickpeas.

Cheese: Shredded mozzarella adds a lovely creaminess. You can substitute it with provolone or even a dairy-free cheese if you prefer a plant-based version.

Veggies: Bell peppers and celery add crunch, but you can get creative! Try adding cucumbers, olives, or even artichoke hearts for a twist.

Mayonnaise: This acts as the creamy base for the dressing. If you want a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo for a dairy-free version.

How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Salad Doesn’t Get Soggy?

To prevent your pasta salad from becoming soggy, start by cooking the pasta just until it’s al dente, not mushy. Rinsing the pasta under cold water after draining helps stop the cooking process. It’s also essential to refrigerate the salad for at least an hour, as this allows the flavors to blend without the pasta soaking up too much dressing too quickly. Toss everything gently to avoid breaking any delicate ingredients!

Easy Italian Grinder Pasta Salad

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Salad:

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 6 oz sliced hard salami, chopped
• 6 oz sliced ham, chopped
• 6 oz sliced pepperoni, chopped
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/4 cup chopped cooked bacon (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• 1/2 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers

For the Dressing:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious pasta salad will take about 15 minutes of preparation and then you’ll want to chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. So, a total of about 1 hour and 15 minutes to enjoy this delightful dish!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook it according to the package directions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to help cool it down. Make sure to drain thoroughly.

2. Mix the Salad Ingredients:

In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the chopped salami, ham, pepperoni, shredded mozzarella, diced red bell pepper, chopped celery, bacon (if using), red onion, and sliced pepperoncini peppers. This colorful mix gives your salad a hearty, delicious base!

3. Prepare the Dressing:

In another bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, sugar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is nicely combined and smooth—this creamy dressing will bring all your ingredients together.

4. Combine Everything Together:

Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the meat and veggies. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and veggies are evenly coated with the dressing.

5. Chill & Serve:

Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. This allows all those wonderful flavors to blend beautifully. When ready to serve, you can enjoy it chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy your scrumptious Easy Italian Grinder Pasta Salad!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use A Different Type of Pasta?

Absolutely! While penne is great for this salad, you can use any short pasta like fusilli, rotini, or even elbow macaroni. Just ensure the pasta is cooked to al dente for the best texture.

How Long Does This Pasta Salad Last in the Fridge?

This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you notice it becoming dry, you can add a little extra mayonnaise or a splash of vinegar to revive it.

Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?

Yes! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the meats and replace them with additional veggies, such as cucumbers or olives. You can also add chickpeas or marinated tofu for extra protein!

What Can I Serve With This Pasta Salad?

This pasta salad makes a great standalone dish, but you can pair it with grilled vegetables, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad. It’s also a delightful side for BBQ or potlucks!