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Grinder Pasta Salad

Grinder Pasta Salad Recipe: Easy Summer Picnic Dish with Smoked Beef


  • Author: Freya Allen
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Standard

Description

Grinder Pasta Salad is a vibrant, easy-to-make side dish that blends rotini pasta with crisp cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and savory smoked beef. Tossed in a zesty Italian dressing seasoned with oregano, salt, and pepper, this salad offers a refreshing tang and hearty protein, making it perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or quick lunches. Ready in 30 minutes, it serves six and delivers a balanced mix of carbs, veggies, and protein. Ideal gatherings, it adds extra flavor.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces rotini pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 6 ounces smoked beef, chopped
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/2 cup Italian dressing
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, smoked beef, and black olives.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
  4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

  • For a spicier version, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the dressing. The salad can be made a day ahead
  • store in an airtight container and stir before serving.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Lunch
  • Method: Boiling, mixing
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Grinder Pasta Salad, pasta salad recipe, summer pasta salad, easy pasta salad, grilled pasta salad, smoked beef pasta salad, quick lunch ideas, picnic side dishes, rotini salad, Italian dressing pasta, fresh vegetable salad