The Italian Grinder Pasta Salad That Might Outshine the Burgers

This viral-inspired pasta salad recipe has crispy pesto-coated orecchiette, deli meats, provolone, pepperoncini, and enough main-character energy to steal the spotlight at any cookout.

Fitness May 29, 2026 0 5 Add to Reading List

The Italian Grinder Pasta Salad That Might Outshine the Burgers

Now that barbecue season has arrived, it’s time for a bold declaration: Sure, burgers and hot dogs are great — but the sides are the real star. Case in point? Food by Maria’s Italian Grinder Pasta Salad with Crispy Air-Fried Orecchiette.

A twist on the viral grinder sandwich, this deceptively easy recipe has everything you love about an Italian sub/hoagie/hero (prosciutto, salami, pepperoncini, provolone, iceberg lettuce), but levels it up with a few extras: store-bought olive salad, sun-dried tomatoes, and The World’s Most Underrated Pasta™, which gets smothered in pesto and air-fried until golden and crispy.

Toss it all in the creamy, tangy dressing — and something tells us you’ll be the most popular person at the cookout.

The Time Commitment: About 40 minutes.

Key Tips: No air fryer? No problem. Maria Koutsogiannis (aka Food by Maria) says to broil the cooked pasta for 8 to 10 minutes. Also, for a vegetarian option, sub artichoke hearts and extra olives for prosciutto and salami.

Other Takes: For more “sides” with main dish energy…

Cold Noodle Salad With Spicy Peanut Sauce. Yes, peanut dressing improves everything. But this 20-minute dish featuring perfectly chewy noodles and tons of crunchy veggies might be its highest calling.
Spinach and Pepperoncini Baked Feta Dip. Light, bright, and delightfully zesty, this might actually be better than everyone’s favorite party dip. We said what we said.
Marinated Green Olive Bean Salad with Chive Basil Dressing.This protein- and fiber-packed recipe requires zero cooking — and gets better as it sits. So make extra and thank yourself later.