The name comes from the ingredients, the same as in a “hero” sandwich
HERO PASTA SALAD RECIPE
Serves: 4 Difficulty Level: 1 (of 5) Prep Time: 20 Minutes Ready In: 20 Minutes
INGREDIENTS:
SALAD:
•3 ounces rotini, cavatelli, pasta
•1 cup cubed provolone cheese
•2 ounces fully cooked ham, cut into thin bite-size strips
•2 ounces hard salami, chopped
•1 small red onion, halved then sliced
•1/2 cup pepperonis, sliced, or sliced mild pepper rings
•2 cups shredded iceberg or romaine lettuce
•1 large tomato, coarsely chopped
DRESSING:
•3 tablespoons olive oil or salad oil
•3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
•1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, crushed
•2 small cloves garlic, minced
•1/4 teaspoon dry mustard
•1/8 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
PROCEDURE:
SALAD:
•In a large saucepan or pasta pot bring 3 quarts water to boiling.
•Add pasta and reduce heat slightly.
•Boil, uncovered, for 8-12 minutes, or till pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally. Immediately drain.
•Rinse with cold water and drain again thoroughly.
•In a large bowl toss together cooked pasta, provolone cheese, ham, salami, onion, and pepperoni or pepper rings.
•Add lettuce and tomato*
•Gently toss to mix.
•*If making it ahead, wait to add the lettuce and tomato until just before serving time.
DRESSING:
•In a screw-top jar combine olive oil or salad oil, vinegar, oregano, garlic, dry mustard, and pepper.
•Cover; shake well.
•Pour over pasta mixture; toss to coat all ingredients with dressing and serve.
Enjoy
Chef Phil
If you are a “die-hard” hero sandwich type, garlic bread may be served on the side.