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–+ servings
Grinder Pasta Salad

Grinder Pasta Salad - The Ultimate Picnic Flavor Bomb

Grinder Pasta Salad is a vibrant and adaptable dish featuring fresh veggies and savory proteins, perfect for summer gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 ounces Pasta Use any pasta shape; cook until al dente
  • 2 cups Lettuce Finely shredded
  • 6 ounces Salami Cubed; substitute with diced tofu for vegetarian option
  • 4 ounces Cheese Dairy-free option available
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Halved
  • 1 cup Cucumber Finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup Green Olives Sliced
  • 1/4 cup Pepperoncini Optional
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Mayo Dairy-free version available
  • 1 tablespoon Honey Dijon Mustard Regular Dijon works as well
  • 2 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar
  • 2 cloves Garlic Freshly minced
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
  • to taste Salt Essential for seasoning
  • to taste Pepper Essential for seasoning

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Measuring cup
  • Large spoon or spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Prepare the Veggies: Finely shred lettuce, cube salami and cheese, halve tomatoes, finely chop cucumber, and slice green olives. Set aside for assembly.
  3. Mix the Salad Components: Combine cooled pasta with lettuce, salami, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and minced pepperoncini. Toss gently.
  4. Whisk the Dressing: In a measuring cup, whisk mayo, honey Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Combine Salad and Dressing: Pour dressing over pasta salad and fold gently to coat evenly.
  6. Chill and Serve: Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, chill the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Adjust dressing to your liking and feel free to experiment with ingredients.

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