Description
A flavorful Italian-inspired cold pasta salad combining rotini, deli meats, fresh vegetables, and a creamy tangy dressing, perfect for picnics or light meals.
Ingredients
Pasta Salad
- 12 ounces rotini or penne pasta, cooked and cooled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded iceberg or romaine lettuce
- ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup sliced pepperoncini
- ½ cup sliced black olives
- 6 ounces salami, cut into strips
- 6 ounces deli ham, chopped
- ½ cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, add the cooked and cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, shredded lettuce, thinly sliced red onion, sliced pepperoncini, sliced black olives, salami strips, chopped deli ham, shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Mix Salad and Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta mixture and toss thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Before serving, toss the salad again to redistribute the dressing and garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve cold.
Notes
- This pasta salad is inspired by the flavors of a classic Italian grinder sandwich.
- Add croutons just before serving for a crunchy texture.
- Feel free to swap the deli meats and cheeses to suit your taste.
- Best served chilled and freshly tossed.
