Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 12 oz rotini or penne pasta
- 1/2 cup salami, diced
- 1/2 cup pepperoni, diced
- 1/2 cup ham or prosciutto, diced
- 1/2 cup mozzarella pearls or cubes
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 1/4 cup black or green olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup pepperoncini (banana peppers), sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
For the Dressing:
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions in salted water until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water to cool, and set aside.
- Prepare the dressing:
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Set aside.
- Assemble the salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced salami, pepperoni, ham, mozzarella, red onion, cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, olives, and pepperoncini.
- Add the dressing:
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss well to ensure everything is evenly coated. Let the salad sit for about 15-30 minutes (in the fridge or at room temperature) to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish and serve:
- Just before serving, toss the salad again, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for added freshness. You can also sprinkle some Parmesan cheese or extra pepperoncini on top if desired.
Tips:
- Add shredded lettuce just before serving for a true «grinder» sandwich feel.
- You can mix in some chopped artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, or cucumbers for added texture and flavor.
- This salad tastes even better the next day, so feel free to prepare it in advance and let the flavors develop in the fridge.
Grinder Pasta Salad is the perfect combination of the savory, zesty ingredients you love in an Italian sub sandwich, now in pasta form! It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make, filling, and bursting with bold flavors.