Italian Grinder Pasta Salad

When the weather turns warm, nothing quite satisfies like a cool and vibrant salad. This Italian Grinder Pasta Salad comes together in just 30 minutes and combines a delightful medley of textures and flavors. It works beautifully as a side dish for barbecues, picnics, or a quick weeknight dinner.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a refreshing, hassle-free dish to serve at gatherings. Make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a flavor-packed side that only gets better as it chills.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The pasta has a satisfying chew that complements the crisp vegetables.
• You’ll enjoy a burst of flavor from the pepperoncini and olives.
• It’s incredibly simple to prepare with just a few chopping and mixing steps.
• The salad can be made in advance, making meal prep a breeze.

What You’ll Need

Gather the ingredients for a delicious pasta salad.

For the Salad

• 8 oz pasta (e.g., rotini or penne)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup pepperoncini, sliced
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/2 cup diced salami
• 1/2 cup diced provolone cheese
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

For the Dressing

• 1/2 cup Italian dressing

For Seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

Provolone cheese can be swapped for mozzarella.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
• Swap salami for turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Use feta cheese instead of provolone for a tangy flavor.
• Omit olives for those who prefer a milder taste.

How to Make It

Follow these steps for a delicious pasta salad.

Cook the pasta

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

Combine the ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with cherry tomatoes, pepperoncini, black olives, salami, provolone cheese, red onion, and basil.

Dress the salad

Pour the Italian dressing over the pasta salad and toss to coat evenly.

Season

Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as necessary for flavor.

Chill

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

How to Store It

Fridge: up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, pasta does not freeze well.
Reheat: not recommended; serve chilled.

Tips for Best Results

• Rinse the pasta well to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
• Allow the salad to sit for a bit longer in the fridge for enhanced flavors.
• Use fresh herbs for a brighter taste, especially the basil.
• Adjust the amount of Italian dressing based on your preference for tanginess.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a side dish at summer barbecues.
• Pair with grilled chicken for a complete meal.
• Bring along for a potluck or picnic outing.