Description
This Italian Grinder Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of rotini pasta, fresh vegetables, savory salami, and creamy mozzarella cheese, all tossed in a tangy Italian dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or a flavorful side dish, this salad offers a burst of Mediterranean flavors with every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup salami, diced
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside to cool completely.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, diced salami, cubed mozzarella, and chopped fresh basil. Gently toss to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are coated with the dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled for the best taste experience.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the salami or substitute with a plant-based alternative.
- You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or artichoke hearts for extra texture.
- Make sure the pasta is completely cooled before mixing to prevent the cheese from melting.
- This pasta salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Adjust the seasoning of the dressing according to your taste preferences.
