This Easy Italian Grinder Pasta Salad is a burst of flavor! Packed with yummy pasta, crunchy veggies, and tasty Italian meats, it’s perfect for sharing at a picnic or potluck.
Trust me, every bite is like a mini-vacation to Italy! Whenever I make this dish, it disappears faster than my dog can chase a squirrel! 🐾
What I love most is how easy it is to throw together. Just mix everything in a bowl and chill! Enjoy it as a side or a light meal—so fresh and delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: Penne is great for holding dressing, but you can swap it for rotini or fusilli for a fun twist. Just keep an eye on the cooking time!
Italian Meats: I prefer pepperoni, ham, and salami, but you can mix and match with turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Just aim for that Italian flavor!
Pepperoncini or Banana Peppers: If you’re not a fan of heat, try using sweet bell peppers or even pickles for a milder taste. Personal note: I love that zing from peppers!
Mayonnaise: For a healthier option, try Greek yogurt or a light mayo. It adds creaminess without all the calories!
How Do You Ensure the Perfect Pasta Texture?
Cooking pasta correctly is key to this salad. Follow these simple steps to avoid mushy pasta:
- Boil water in a large pot and add a generous amount of salt (about 1 tablespoon). This helps flavor the pasta.
- Cook the penne until al dente, meaning it’s firm but tender. Start checking a minute or two before the package time ends.
- Once done, drain and rinse the pasta immediately under cold water. This stops the cooking process and helps it cool down quickly.
This way, your pasta will stay firm and won’t soak up too much dressing later!
Easy Italian Grinder Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni, chopped
- 1 cup diced cooked ham
- 1 cup shredded salami (or any Italian deli meat), chopped
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper
- 3/4 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoncini or banana peppers
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Time Estimate:
This delicious pasta salad takes about 20 minutes to prep. Make sure to allow at least 1 hour for chilling in the fridge so all those yummy flavors can mix together. Overall, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 20 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by boiling a large pot of water. Add a generous pinch of salt. Once the water is boiling, add the penne pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm but cooked). Usually, this is around 8-10 minutes. After cooking, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set it aside.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the chopped pepperoni, diced ham, shredded salami, diced red bell pepper, chopped celery, sliced pepperoncini, diced red onion, and shredded mozzarella cheese. This combo is where the magic happens!
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a little salt and pepper until it’s nice and smooth. This creamy dressing is going to tie all the flavors together!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Make sure every piece of pasta and veggie gets some of that delicious dressing!
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows all those flavors to meld and makes it super refreshing. When you’re ready to serve, give it a small stir and enjoy this tasty salad as a delightful side dish or a light meal!
This Easy Italian Grinder Pasta Salad is packed with hearty deli meats and tangy peppers, all wrapped up in a creamy dressing. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or family gatherings. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Italian Grinder Pasta Salad
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular penne pasta with gluten-free penne. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package, as gluten-free pasta can have slightly different cooking times. It will still turn out delicious!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! You can easily make this salad vegan by omitting the deli meats and using a vegan mayo instead of regular mayonnaise. Add in some chickpeas or diced avocado for added protein and creaminess!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving, as the dressing may absorb into the pasta over time.
Can I Prepare This Salad the Night Before?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance! In fact, chilling it overnight allows the flavors to meld together even more. Just remember to stir it before serving to refresh the taste and texture.
