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Italian Grinder Pasta Salad

Italian grinder pasta salad with rotini, pepperoni, ham, provolone, and banana peppers in a white bowl
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This Italian Grinder Pasta Salad is loaded with all the classic flavors of an Italian grinder sandwich in pasta salad form. Zesty red wine vinaigrette, pepperoni, ham, provolone, and banana peppers make it the perfect dish for potlucks, barbecues, or easy meal prep.

Ingredients

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  • 1 lb rotini or fusilli pasta
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise, full-fat
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 4 oz sliced pepperoni, chopped
  • 4 oz sliced deli ham, chopped
  • 4 oz provolone cheese, diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup banana peppers, drained and chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, roughly chopped

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold running water for 60 to 90 seconds, tossing to cool evenly. Spread on a sheet pan if needed to cool faster. Let cool completely before proceeding.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, and garlic powder. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust before adding the pasta.
  3. Add the completely cooled pasta, pepperoni, ham, provolone, red onion, banana peppers, and fresh parsley to the bowl.
  4. Toss everything together until the pasta and all mix-ins are evenly coated in the dressing.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving. For best flavor, chill for 30 minutes. Stir before serving and add a splash of red wine vinegar or a spoonful of mayo if the salad looks dry after resting.

Notes

  • Make sure pasta is completely cooled before adding to the dressing. Warm pasta will cause the dressing to turn greasy and thin.
  • Add 1 tablespoon of banana pepper brine to the dressing for extra tangy flavor.
  • Optional add-ins include black olives, sliced cherry tomatoes, or salami.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Not recommended for freezing.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.benefitiany.com/italian-grinder-pasta-salad/