This Easy Italian Grinder Pasta Salad is a fun and colorful dish! With tasty pasta, fresh veggies, and zesty Italian dressing, it’s perfect for warm days or picnics.
I love how simple it is to whip up this salad. Just boil the pasta, chop your favorite veggies, mix it all together, and voilà—you’ve got a tasty treat! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: Penne is great for this salad because its shape holds the dressing well. If you want a gluten-free option, feel free to use gluten-free pasta or another type like rotini or fusilli for a fun twist.
Mayonnaise: To lighten things up, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. It still gives creaminess but adds a bit of tang. If you want a vegan version, try using a plant-based mayo!
Cheese: Parmesan cheese gives a nice salty flavor to the dressing. Grated Pecorino Romano can be used for a sharper taste, or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Meats: Genoa salami, pepperoni, and ham are classic, but you can mix it up! Try turkey or add in some cooked chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, just skip the meats or add more veggies like chickpeas.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the pasta just right is crucial for this salad. Here’s how to cook it like a pro:
- Boil water with a good amount of salt; it should taste like the sea. This enhances the pasta’s flavor.
- Cook the pasta until it’s al dente, which means it should have a slight bite. Check the package for exact timing, usually around 8-12 minutes.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water immediately. This stops the cooking process and cools it down so it stays firm in the salad.
By taking care with the pasta, your salad will have a great texture that pairs well with all the other ingredients!
Easy Italian Grinder Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers
- 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1 cup chopped Genoa salami
- 1 cup chopped pepperoni
- 1 cup chopped ham
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
This pasta salad takes about 20 minutes of prep time and at least 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. So, plan for around 1 hour and 20 minutes in total to make this delicious salad ready to serve!
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually about 8-12 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water until it’s cool to the touch. Let it drain well.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, add the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined into a smooth dressing.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the cooled penne pasta to the dressing mixture in the bowl. Toss gently until the pasta is well coated with the dressing. Then, add the chopped Genoa salami, pepperoni, ham, red bell pepper, red onion, and sliced pepperoncini peppers. Mix gently to combine everything without breaking the pasta.
4. Taste and Adjust:
Give your pasta salad a taste, and add more salt, pepper, or other spices as needed. For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 1 hour. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, you can enjoy this salad chilled from the fridge or at room temperature. It’s a great dish for potlucks, BBQs, or a satisfying meal on a warm day!
This hearty pasta salad is inspired by the classic Italian grinder sandwich. Each bite is a delightful mix of creamy and zesty flavors, with the pepperoncini providing a perfect tangy kick. Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is a great choice, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini, fusilli, or farfalle. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different shapes may require varying lengths of time to cook.
How Long Does This Pasta Salad Last in the Fridge?
This pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, it’s best enjoyed within the first 1-2 days for optimal freshness and flavor. Just remember to stir it before serving, as ingredients may settle or separate while chilling!
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Vegetarian?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the meats (Genoa salami, pepperoni, and ham) and consider adding more veggies or chickpeas for protein. You can also throw in some olives for added flavor!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt works great in place of mayonnaise and adds a nice tang. For a vegan version, opt for a plant-based mayo or even mashed avocado for a creamy texture without dairy.
