Go Back
–+ servings
Favorite Grinder Pasta Salad

Flavor-Packed Favorite Grinder Pasta Salad That's Meal-Prep Ready

This Favorite Grinder Pasta Salad combines zesty Italian flavors with high-protein ingredients for a satisfying meal-prep option.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 ounces Pasta of Choice Use rotini for a fun texture
  • 1.5 cups Iceberg Lettuce Provides freshness and crunch
  • 0.75 cups Mini Mozzarella Balls Swap for dairy-free cheese to keep it vegan
  • 0.5 cups Pepperoncini Gives a tangy kick
  • 0.75 cups Pepperoni, chopped Offer savory protein
  • 0.75 cups Salami, chopped Deepens the flavor
  • 0.75 cups Red Bell Pepper, chopped Brings sweetness and color
  • 1 can Garbanzo Beans Drained and rinsed
  • 0.33 cups Red Onion, thinly sliced Adds sharpness to balance flavors
  • 0.75 cups Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese, freshly grated Omit for a dairy-free dish
For the Dressing
  • 0.33 cups Olive Oil Rich base for the dressing
  • 0.25 cups Red Wine Vinegar Provides tangy acidity
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Enhances flavor in the dressing
  • 1 tablespoon Oregano Aromatic herb that complements the entire salad
  • 2 teaspoons Garlic Powder Adds savory depth
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Enhances flavors overall
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper Adds a touch of spice

Equipment

  • medium bowl
  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • mixing bowl
  • Large spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Add oregano, garlic powder, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Stir well.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8–10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water.
  3. Chop iceberg lettuce, bell pepper, pepperoni, salami into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice red onion and drain garbanzo beans.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta with the prepped ingredients. Mix well.
  5. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat everything.
  6. You can enjoy immediately, or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for best flavor.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 20gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best taste and texture. Adjust seasoning in the dressing to your preference.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!