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Flavorful Grinder Sandwich Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing

Flavorful Grinder Sandwich Pasta Salad - featured image
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A quick and easy pasta salad that captures the classic flavors of a grinder sandwich with Italian meats, sharp provolone, fresh veggies, and a zesty homemade Italian dressing. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a fuss-free meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces rotini or penne pasta
  • 6 ounces Genoa salami, sliced into bite-sized pieces
  • 6 ounces provolone cheese, cubed
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced (seeded if preferred)
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/4 cup pepperoncini, sliced
  • 1/3 cup olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of rotini or penne pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 9-11 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool the pasta completely.
  2. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together 1/3 cup olive oil, 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon sugar, and salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  3. Dice 6 ounces Genoa salami and 6 ounces provolone cheese into bite-sized pieces. Halve 1 cup cherry tomatoes, dice 1 cup cucumber, finely chop 1/2 cup red onion, slice 1/2 cup black olives, and 1/4 cup pepperoncini.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped meats, cheese, and vegetables. Pour the Italian dressing over the top and toss gently but thoroughly to coat every piece. Add more olive oil or vinegar if the salad seems dry.
  5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally 3-4 hours, to let the flavors meld.
  6. Before serving, sprinkle with 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley and optionally 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Toss gently and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta; rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool. Use good quality Italian dressing or make homemade for best flavor. Rest salad for several hours to deepen flavors. Adjust heat by adding hot cherry peppers or red pepper flakes. Add delicate herbs like parsley or basil just before serving. Store dressing separately if prepping ahead to keep salad fresh and crisp.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta salad, grinder sandwich, Italian dressing, potluck recipe, picnic food, easy pasta salad, Italian meats, provolone cheese

Find it online: https://pokirecipes.com/flavorful-grinder-sandwich-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-italian-dressing-guide/