Description
A flavorful Italian Grinder Pasta Salad combining al dente pasta with fresh mozzarella, smoked Gouda, pepperoni, salami, fresh veggies, and a zesty creamy Italian dressing. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or easy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta Salad
- 16 ounces pasta, cooked al dente
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls
- 8 ounces diced smoked Gouda
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup arugula
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/2 cup quartered pepperoni
- 1/2 cup salami cut into strips
- 1/2 cup sliced banana pepper rings
Dressing
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/3 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Fresh cracked pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions just until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool for about 20 minutes.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add cooled pasta, mozzarella balls, diced smoked Gouda, halved cherry tomatoes, arugula, thinly sliced red onion, quartered pepperoni, salami strips, and sliced banana pepper rings.
- Prepare Dressing: In a large measuring cup, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, red wine vinegar, olive oil, Italian seasoning, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and fresh cracked pepper until well combined.
- Toss Salad: Pour half of the dressing over the pasta salad ingredients and gently toss until everything is well coated.
- Serve: Reserve the remaining dressing and add it just before serving the pasta salad for optimal freshness and flavor. Enjoy!
- Feedback: If you loved this recipe, please leave a 5-star rating and review below to share your experience!
Notes
- Allow the pasta to cool completely before mixing to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
- The dressing can be adjusted with more or less vinegar or mustard to suit your taste preference.
- This salad can be prepared a few hours ahead but add the remaining dressing just before serving.
- Optional: Add black olives or fresh basil for additional flavor twists.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
