Name: Italian Grinder Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini; 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce; 1 cup arugula; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/3 cup banana peppers, sliced; 1/2 cup cubed provolone cheese; 1/3 cup sliced salami; 1/3 cup chopped ham; 1/3 cup sliced pepperoni; 1/3 cup mayonnaise; 1 1/2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and black pepper to taste

Craving something bold, fresh, and perfect for a crowd? The Italian Grinder Salad might just be your new go-to. This dish takes all the flavors you love from a classic Italian grinder sandwich and transforms them into a vibrant, fork-friendly salad. Imagine tender tortellini tossed with crunchy romaine, juicy tomatoes, red onions, and a creamy, zesty dressing that pulls everything together. It’s hearty enough for dinner and celebratory enough for a potluck spread.

What makes this salad irresistible is its flavor layering—from the peppery bite of arugula to the tangy banana peppers and the velvety cheese-filled pasta, every bite delivers contrast and comfort. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or hosting brunch, the Italian Grinder Salad brings a deli-style classic to your table with ease and flair.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Getting this salad together is easier than it looks, and the right tools make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

Large Pot: Essential for boiling the tortellini just right—al dente and never mushy.
Mixing Bowls (at least two): One for assembling the salad, and another for whisking the dressing.
Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: Crucial for slicing cherry tomatoes, onions, lettuce, and deli meats evenly.
Salad Spinner (optional but helpful): To dry the greens thoroughly so the dressing clings properly.
Tongs or Salad Servers: Handy for tossing everything together without bruising the ingredients.

Efficient prep ensures that each ingredient retains its texture and flavor, giving the salad that perfect bite every time.

Ingredients for the Italian Grinder Salad

Each component plays a unique role in flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cheese Tortellini: Brings richness and body to the salad, making it more filling.
Romaine Lettuce: Adds crunch and freshness, creating the classic salad base.
Arugula: Offers a peppery contrast that elevates the overall flavor.
Cherry Tomatoes: Juicy bursts of sweetness that balance the salty deli meats.
Red Onion: A touch of sharpness for depth.
Banana Peppers: Tangy and bright—they cut through the creamy dressing.
Provolone Cheese: Creamy and mild, it binds well with the other Italian deli flavors.
Deli Meats (Salami, Ham, Pepperoni): Savory, spiced bites that are the heart of the “grinder” taste.
Mayonnaise & Red Wine Vinegar: The base of the creamy dressing with tang.
Italian Seasoning & Garlic Powder: Adds herby notes to the dressing.
Black Pepper & Salt: For seasoning to taste.

How To Make the Italian Grinder Salad

Step 1: Boil and Cool the Tortellini

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tortellini according to the package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.

Step 2: Chop the Veggies and Meats

While the pasta is cooling, chop romaine, arugula, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and banana peppers. Slice the deli meats into strips and cube or shred the provolone.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until creamy and smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, chopped vegetables, meats, and cheese. Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and the dressing to slightly absorb into the pasta and veggies.

How to Serve and Store Your Italian Grinder Salad

Serve the Italian Grinder Salad chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor experience. It pairs well with crusty garlic bread or a light soup if you’re serving it for dinner.

To store, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The salad holds up well, though the greens may slightly wilt over time. If you’re making it in advance, keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving to maintain the crispness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. While tortellini adds a stuffed richness, you can swap it for rotini, penne, or even ravioli depending on your preference.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Only if you use gluten-free tortellini and confirm that your deli meats and dressing ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I make this ahead for a party?

Yes! Just prep the ingredients and store them separately, combining everything with the dressing an hour before serving.

What meats work best?

Classic grinder meats like salami, ham, and pepperoni deliver bold flavor, but turkey or mortadella can also be delicious substitutes.

Can I skip the meat for a vegetarian version?

Of course. The salad is still satisfying with just the tortellini, cheese, and veggies. You could also add chickpeas or marinated tofu for added protein.

How do I make the dressing lighter?

Use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise, or mix half mayo with plain yogurt for a tangy-lighter twist.

Want More Italian Salad Ideas?

If this salad won your heart, try branching out into other Italian-inspired salads! You might enjoy the hearty and savory Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta, or go for something cozy like Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup alongside your salad.

For other bright and bold dishes, take a peek at the California Spaghetti Salad, or if you’re in the mood for a warm twist, the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe offers a fun contrast.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your salad or meal prep boards for later. Just click the Pin button and add it to your Pinterest collection.

If you try this Italian Grinder Salad, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you switch up the meats? Try a new pasta? Share your thoughts in the comments below or tag me in your photos.

For more daily recipes and food inspiration, visit my Pinterest board at LadyPlate on Pinterest.