If there’s one dish I turn to again and again for summer gatherings, it’s pasta salad. But not just any pasta salad — this grinder pasta salad is loaded with all the flavors I love from a classic Italian deli grinder sandwich, tossed together in a bowl with tender pasta and a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s savory, salty, and satisfying, and every bite feels like summer.

I first made this recipe for a backyard BBQ, and everyone kept coming back for seconds. Since then, it’s become one of my favorite side dishes for everything from cookouts and picnics to easy weekday meal prep. The best part? It’s endlessly customizable, and it only takes a few minutes to toss together.

Why I Love This Grinder Pasta Salad

• It has all the bold, zesty flavors of an Italian grinder sandwich in pasta salad form.
• Perfect for feeding a crowd — everyone loves it, and it disappears fast.
• Quick and easy to make with simple, fresh ingredients.
• Ideal for BBQs, potlucks, or just having on hand for lunch throughout the week.
• You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have in the fridge.

Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves 10-12 | Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Chill Time: 30 minutes)

• 1 pound rotini or bowtie pasta
• 1/2 pound sliced deli ham, chopped
• 1/2 pound sliced salami, chopped
• 1/2 pound sliced pepperoni, chopped
• 1/2 cup sliced banana peppers
• 1/2 cup sliced black olives
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1 cup diced provolone or mozzarella cheese
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

For the dressing:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste

How I Make Grinder Pasta Salad (Step-by-Step)

1. Cook and Cool the Pasta
   I start by cooking the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Then I drain and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process and help it cool quickly.
2. Prep the Meats and Veggies
   While the pasta is cooking, I chop the ham, salami, and pepperoni into bite-sized pieces. I dice the cheese and red onion, halve the cherry tomatoes, and slice the banana peppers. Everything goes into a large mixing bowl.
3. Make the Dressing
   In a small bowl, I whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
4. Toss Everything Together
   I add the cooled pasta to the large mixing bowl with the meats, cheese, and veggies. Then, I pour the dressing over the top and toss everything gently until it’s evenly coated.
5. Chill Before Serving
   I cover the pasta salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to let all the flavors meld. Before serving, I give it one more toss and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.

My Tips for the Best Grinder Pasta Salad

• Rinse the pasta with cold water after cooking so it doesn’t get sticky or overcooked.
• Don’t skimp on the fresh parsley — it adds brightness to all the savory flavors.
• Add crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
• If making ahead, you might need to add a splash of vinegar or a spoonful of mayo before serving to refresh the dressing.

Fun Variations I’ve Tried

• Adding sliced pepperoncini or pickled jalapeños for extra tang and spice.
• Swapping out deli meats for grilled chicken or turkey.
• Using shredded Parmesan cheese for a sharper flavor.
• Adding diced cucumbers for a refreshing crunch.

What I Serve with Grinder Pasta Salad

• It pairs perfectly with grilled burgers, hot dogs, or BBQ chicken.
• I love serving it alongside corn on the cob and watermelon slices for summer gatherings.
• It’s also great as part of a cold lunch spread with crusty bread and fresh fruit.
• Sometimes I just enjoy a big bowl on its own for an easy, satisfying lunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! I actually think it tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to develop.

Q: How long will it keep in the fridge?
A: Stored in an airtight container, it will last up to 4 days.

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! Rotini, bowtie, or penne all work well. Just make sure it’s a pasta shape that holds the dressing and mix-ins.

Q: What can I use instead of mayonnaise in the dressing?
A: I’ve swapped in plain Greek yogurt for a lighter version, and it’s still delicious.

Why This Grinder Pasta Salad Deserves a Spot on Your Table

This pasta salad is everything I want in a summer side dish — bold, savory, fresh, and satisfying. It brings together all the flavors of a deli grinder sandwich in a fun, shareable pasta salad that’s perfect for warm-weather gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, heading to a picnic, or just meal prepping for the week, this recipe is always a winner.

I hope you give this grinder pasta salad a try and make it part of your summer go-to recipes. Whether you follow it exactly or add your own twist, it’s one of those dishes that people will keep asking for — and you’ll be happy to make again and again.