Packed with bold deli flavors, crisp vegetables, creamy dressing, and hearty pasta, this Grinder Pasta Salad is inspired by the famous grinder sandwich. It combines savory meats, cheese, tangy dressing, and crunchy lettuce into one irresistible dish that’s perfect for potlucks, lunches, or summer gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Loaded with sandwich-inspired flavor
- Creamy, tangy, and satisfying
- Great for meal prep
- Perfect for parties and BBQs
- Easy to customize
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 12 oz rotini or penne pasta
- 1 cup chopped salami
- 1 cup chopped turkey or ham
- 1 cup provolone or mozzarella cubes
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoncini
- 1/2 cucumber, chopped
For the Dressing
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, salami, turkey, cheese, tomatoes, onion, pepperoncini, and cucumber.
Pour dressing over the salad and toss until well coated.
Step 4: Add Lettuce
Fold in shredded lettuce just before serving to keep it crisp.
Step 5: Chill
Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Serving Ideas
Serve with:
- Garlic bread
- Chips
- Grilled chicken
- Fresh fruit
- Pickles
Pro Tips
- Add lettuce right before serving
- Use multiple deli meats for richer flavor
- Chill before serving so dressing absorbs well
- Add banana peppers for extra tang
Storage
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
