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Italian Grinder Pasta Salad

Italian Grinder Pasta Salad: A Summer Hit You'll Adore

This Italian Grinder Pasta Salad combines savory salami, creamy mozzarella, and refreshing pickled vegetables, offering a vibrant twist on classic Italian flavors.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Can substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard Can be replaced with yellow mustard.
  • 3 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar Can substitute with white wine vinegar or lemon juice.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Fresh oregano can be used.
  • 1 teaspoon Granulated Sugar Can be omitted for a sugar-free option.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper Can substitute with pre-ground pepper.
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Can be replaced with another neutral oil.
Salad
  • 8 ounces Short Pasta (e.g., Vesuvio/Trottole) Can use gluten-free pasta.
  • 1 cup Chopped Roasted Red Bell Pepper Fresh bell peppers can be used.
  • 1 cup Chopped Cherry Tomatoes Fresh grape tomatoes can be used.
  • 1/2 cup Pickled Teardrop Peppers Can use more pepperoncini.
  • 1/2 cup Chopped Pepperoncini Peppers Can substitute with banana peppers.
  • 1 medium Thinly Sliced Red Onion Soaking reduces pungency.
  • 6 ounces Diced Salami For vegetarian, substitute with artichoke hearts.
  • 8 ounces Mini Mozzarella Balls Omit for dairy-free option.
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Basil Leaves Substitute with parsley if unavailable.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add your short pasta and cook until al dente for about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Thinly slice the red onion and place in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow the flavor. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, oregano, sugar, salt, pepper, and olive oil until smooth.
  4. In a large bowl, combine soaked onions, salami, roasted red pepper, cherry tomatoes, pickled peppers, and pepperoncini. Fold in the dressing, adjusting seasonings to taste.
  5. Add cooled pasta and mozzarella balls, mixing gently to incorporate. Sprinkle in fresh basil and combine. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Once chilled, toss again before serving. Enjoy alongside grilled meats or at summer gatherings.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days; freshen with olive oil before serving again.

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