Dinner

Italian Grinder Pasta Salad Recipe

ByNoah Steele March 6, 2026March 6, 2026

Introduction

This Italian Grinder Pasta Salad is a refreshing and hearty dish perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a satisfying lunch. Combining classic deli meats, fresh vegetables, and a tangy homemade dressing, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare ahead of time.

A clear glass bowl filled with a creamy pasta salad showing several layers: the base layer is pale yellow penne pasta with smooth texture, mixed with small pieces of light green sliced peppers and bright red diced tomatoes; the middle layer contains bits of sliced deli meat in light pink with white creamy dressing coating everything, scattered with thin slices of purple onion; the top layer visible on the spoon held above the bowl includes all these ingredients combined, with the dressing giving it a slightly glossy look. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

16 ounces penne pasta
1/2 cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 teaspoons minced garlic

1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

4 ounces shredded iceberg lettuce (about 2-3 cups)
4 ounces ham
4 ounces pepperoni

4 ounces salami
4 ounces provolone cheese
1 pint grape tomatoes (halved)

1/2 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers
1/2 red onion (finely diced)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the pasta according to package directions. Once cooked, drain and rinse with cold water to cool the pasta, then drain again thoroughly.

Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, sugar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until smooth to create the dressing. Set aside.
Step 3: Slice the ham, pepperoni, and salami into 1/4 inch slices. Cut the provolone cheese into thin slices or small cubes.
Step 4: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, shredded lettuce, sliced meats and cheese, halved grape tomatoes, sliced pepperoncini peppers, and finely diced red onion.

Step 5: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Serve immediately or chill before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use rotini or bowtie pasta if penne is unavailable for a different texture.
Substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing.

Add black olives or cucumbers for extra crunch and flavor.
For a vegetarian version, omit the meats and increase the cheese and vegetables.

Storage

Store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, add the dressing just before serving if storing the salad for longer periods. If chilled with dressing, give it a good toss before serving. Leftovers can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.