Love grinder sandwiches? Then you’ll love this Italian grinder pasta salad with classic grinder flavors! Packed with savory Italian deli meat, crisp veggies, and a tangy and creamy dressing, this pasta salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or meal prep. If you're looking for easy pasta salad ideas, this viral grinder salad is a must-try!

Overhead of grinder pasta salad with pepperoni salami and cheese.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bursting with Flavor – A combination of hard salami, pepperoni, and banana peppers creates delicious flavors in pasta salad form.
Easy to Make – Simple ingredients come together in just minutes.
Perfect for Any Occasion – This side dish is great for a summer BBQ, picnics, or meal prep lunches.
Customizable – Easily adjust the ingredients to your taste.
Make-Ahead Friendly – This delicious pasta salad tastes even better after the flavors have melded.

Ingredients in Grinder Pasta Salad

Pasta Salad:

tricolor rotini pasta, cooked and cooled
red onion, diced
Roma tomatoes, diced
mini bell peppers, diced
banana peppers, diced
romaine lettuce, chopped (you can use iceberg lettuce)
hard salami, chopped
pepperoni, chopped
mozzarella cubes

Salad Dressing:

red wine vinegar
mayonnaise (4 tbsp)
oregano
Dijon mustard
salt
garlic powder
red pepper flakes (optional)

See the recipe card for he full salad ingredients and dressing ingredients and directions.

A wooden spoon in a large bowl with pasta salad with deli meats and cheese.

How to Make Grinder Pasta Salad

In a large pot of water, boil the tricolor rotini according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cool water and set aside to cool.
Dice the red onion, Roma tomatoes, mini peppers, and banana peppers. Chop the salami, pepperoni, and mozzarella cubes.
In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, mayonnaise, oregano, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and salt until smooth.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced vegetables, meats, and mozzarella cubes. Pour the dressing over the top and toss well to coat everything evenly.
Let the pasta salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
When ready to serve, chop the romaine lettuce and stir it in before serving.

Grinder salad with pasta with a wooden serving spoon.

Quick Tips for the Best Pasta Salad

Cook Pasta Al Dente – Overcooked pasta can become mushy; aim for a firm bite.
Let It Chill – Chill the pasta salad for at least 1 hour to enhance the flavors. It tastes even better the next day!
Use Fresh Ingredients – Crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and quality meats make a difference.
Adjust the Dressing – Add more vinegar for tang, or extra mayo for creaminess.

Side view of decorative bowl of tricolor pasta and grinder ingredients.

Favorite Pasta Shapes for This Recipe

Choosing the right pasta shape can make a big difference in texture and flavor, and short shape pasta works best! While tricolor rotini is a great choice, here are some other favorite pasta shapes that work well:

Campanelle pasta – Its ruffled edges hold onto the dressing beautifully.
Bowtie (Farfalle) pasta – Adds a fun shape and great texture.
Penne pasta – A sturdy option that holds its shape well.
Gluten-free pasta – A great alternative for those with dietary restrictions; opt for a chickpea or brown rice variety for a similar bite.

How to Store Pasta Salad

Store leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up 4-5 days. The pasta will taste best the next day after making. If the pasta absorbs too much dressing, revive it with a splash of red wine vinegar or extra dressing before serving.

Add the romaine lettuce just before serving to prevent it from wilting for the best texture.

A serving spoon full of grinder pasta salad with pepperoni lettuce and mozzarella.

More Pasta Salad

This Italian grinder pasta salad is just one of many delicious recipes you can add to your recipe collection. If you're looking for more pasta salad ideas, try these favorites:

Dill Pickle Pasta Salad – A tangy, crunchy delight.
Oil and Vinegar Pasta Salad – Light and refreshing with a classic vinaigrette.
Instant Pot Amish Macaroni Salad – A creamy, sweet-savory favorite.
Creamy BLT Pasta Salad – Everything you love about a BLT in pasta form.
Italian Pasta Salad – A classic with fresh veggies, meats, and Italian dressing.

📖 Recipe

Dana

Dana is an experienced recipe creator who crafts easy and delicious recipes for all levels of home cooks.

Her recipes range from classic comfort foods to healthy and nutritious meals, and she is always on the lookout for new and exciting ways to bring flavor and variety to the table.