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…
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Dining and Cooking