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Fresh Grinder Pasta Salad

Fresh Grinder Pasta Salad: A Zesty Twist for Quick Meals

Fresh Grinder Pasta Salad is a flavorful dish combining fresh vegetables and zesty dressing, ideal for quick meals.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces rotini or other pasta shapes like penne or farfalle
For the Deli Meats
  • 4 ounces salami substitute with grilled chicken for a lighter option
  • 4 ounces ham turkey is a great lean alternative
For the Fresh Vegetables
  • 1 cup bell peppers mix colors for presentation
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved for bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup cucumbers diced evenly
For the Zesty Dressing
  • 1/4 cup olive oil or avocado oil
  • 2 tablespoons vinegar red wine or apple cider vinegar works well
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard can use honey mustard for a sweeter profile
  • spices customize with Italian herbs or fresh parsley
Optional Add-Ins
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese omit for a dairy-free option
  • 1/4 cup pepperoncini capers can be used for added zest

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • medium bowl
  • large mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • Plastic Wrap

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini and cook until al dente, 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, and spices until well blended.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix cooled pasta, salami, ham, bell peppers, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Pour dressing over and toss gently.
  4. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  5. Serve: Toss before serving, garnish with Parmesan cheese or parsley if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This salad can be customized with various proteins or additional vegetables. It's perfect for meal prep and stays fresh for up to three days in the fridge.

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