Description
Grinder Pasta Salad is a crowd‑pleasing, fresh pasta salad that captures the savory flavor of a classic Italian sub in a chilled, hearty bowl. Featuring smoked beef, beef pepperoni, mozzarella or provolone cubes, crisp cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and briny olives, all tossed in a tangy grape juice and olive oil dressing seasoned with Italian herbs. This easy, make‑ahead dish serves six, perfect for picnics, potlucks, and summer gatherings, delivering bold taste and bright colors on the
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (your choice)
- 1 cup smoked beef, chopped
- 1 cup beef pepperoni, sliced
- 1 cup mozzarella or provolone cheese, cubed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup grape juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, smoked beef, beef pepperoni, cheese, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives.
- In a small bowl, whisk together grape juice, olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for the flavors to meld.
Notes
- For a gluten‑free version
- use gluten‑free pasta. Substitute olives with capers for a different briny flavor. Add a pinch of red‑pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Boiling, mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
Keywords: Grinder Pasta Salad, pasta salad recipe, Italian sub pasta salad, easy pasta salad, summer side dishes, smoked beef pasta salad, quick lunch ideas, make ahead pasta salad, healthy pasta salad, party pasta dishes, vegetarian pasta salad alternative