This Easy Italian Grinder Pasta Salad is packed with tasty ingredients like pasta, pepperoni, cheese, and crunchy veggies. It’s colorful and perfect for summer picnics!
Making it is a breeze—just mix everything together, and you’re ready to serve! I love taking this to gatherings; it’s always a hit and disappears quickly! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: Penne is a great choice because its shape holds onto the dressing well. If you’re out of penne, any short pasta like rotini or fusilli will work just as nicely.
Pepperoni: While pepperoni is such a classic for this salad, you can replace it with salami or even diced cooked ham if you want something different or less spicy.
Cheese: I like using mozzarella for its mild flavor and creamy texture. You could try provolone or even a blend of Italian cheeses if you want to mix it up!
Pepperoncini Peppers: These add a nice tang. If you can’t find them, banana peppers are a tasty alternative. If you prefer no heat, you can leave them out completely.
How Do I Cook Pasta Perfectly for Salad?
Cooking pasta correctly is key to a great pasta salad. You want it al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite to it. Here’s how:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes.
- Check for doneness a minute or two before the suggested time—taste it!
- Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools it down for your salad.
Taking this step ensures your pasta won’t get mushy and will hold up beautifully in the salad!
Easy Italian Grinder Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup pepperoni slices, chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Dressing Ingredients:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons Italian dressing
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Italian Grinder Pasta Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. It’s a simple dish to whip up and the chilling time helps the flavors blend together beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This typically takes around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. This will help prevent it from getting mushy. Set the pasta aside.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, chopped pepperoni, shredded mozzarella cheese, diced red bell pepper, chopped red onion, and sliced pepperoncini peppers. If you’re using parsley, add that in too!
3. Mix the Dressing:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Italian dressing, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
4. Toss Everything Together:
Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta mixture. Use a spatula or big spoon to toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. This ensures delicious flavor in every bite!
5. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and enhances the taste.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, give the salad a good stir to redistribute the dressing. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve chilled and enjoy this refreshing dish at your next gathering!
This creamy, tangy pasta salad combines the classic flavors of an Italian grinder sandwich, making it the perfect side dish or main dish for potlucks and summer cookouts!
FAQ for Easy Italian Grinder Pasta Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is great for this salad, you can use other short pasta shapes like fusilli or rotini. Just make sure to cook them until al dente for the best texture!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It may become slightly softer as it sits, but the flavors will continue to develop!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes, you can make a vegan version by substituting mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan alternatives. Replace the pepperoni with vegan deli slices or omit it, and include more veggies for added texture.
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
If you want to amp up the flavor, consider adding ingredients like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh basil. A splash of lemon juice can also brighten up the salad!
