This Italian Grinder Salad is a fresh and flavorful take on the classic grinder sandwich. Packed with crisp lettuce, savory meats, creamy cheese, and a tangy homemade dressing, it’s perfect as a hearty meal or a delightful side dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and Filling: With protein-packed deli meats and cheese, this salad is as satisfying as it is delicious.
- Customizable: Easily adapt with your favorite veggies, meats, or cheeses.
- Quick to Make: Comes together in just 10 minutes!
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Great as a salad or served in a hoagie roll for an effortless lunch.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Dressing:
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ⅛ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Salad:
- 1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped
- ¼ cup sliced red onion
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- ½ cup chopped pepperoncini
- ½ cup diced provolone cheese
- ½ cup chopped salami
- ½ cup chopped deli turkey
Directions
Step 1: Make the Dressing
In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, garlic, Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until smooth and well combined.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
Add the sliced onion, pepperoncini, diced tomatoes, provolone cheese, salami, and turkey to the bowl with the dressing.
Step 3: Toss and Serve
Top with chopped iceberg lettuce. Toss the salad thoroughly to ensure the dressing coats all ingredients evenly. Serve immediately or chill for 15 minutes for enhanced flavor.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 2
Variations
- Meat Options: Substitute with ham, pepperoni, capicola, or roast beef.
- Cheese Choices: Try mozzarella, Swiss, or cheddar.
- Veggie Boost: Add diced cucumbers, carrots, or bell peppers.
- Low-Carb Option: Skip the pepperoncini or use a low-carb mayonnaise.
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Dressing Separation: Keep the dressing separate if prepping ahead to prevent the lettuce from becoming soggy.
- Not Freezer-Friendly: This salad is best enjoyed fresh.
Tips for Success
- Chop Finely: Dice ingredients into smaller pieces for easy mixing and eating.
- Toast for a Twist: Serve the salad mixture on toasted hoagie rolls for a grinder sandwich experience.
- Adjust Spice: Leave out red pepper flakes for a milder flavor or add more for extra heat.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, but store the dressing separately from the salad ingredients to prevent the lettuce from wilting.
2. What can I substitute for red wine vinegar?
White wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar works well as alternatives.
3. Is iceberg lettuce necessary?
No, you can use Romaine or any other crisp lettuce.
4. How do I make this salad vegetarian?
Omit the meats and add chickpeas or roasted vegetables for added substance.
5. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the Parmesan and provolone for dairy-free alternatives.
6. What is pepperoncini?
Pepperoncini are mild, tangy peppers often used in Italian recipes. You can substitute banana peppers if needed.
7. Can I use pre-shredded lettuce?
Yes, pre-shredded lettuce is a great time-saver.
8. How do I prevent the salad from becoming soggy?
Only toss the salad with dressing just before serving.
9. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients for a larger batch.
10. What are good sides to serve with this salad?
Pair with garlic bread, buttered noodles, or chicken wings for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This Italian Grinder Salad Recipe is a fresh, zesty, and satisfying dish that brings the flavors of a classic grinder sandwich into salad form. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a potluck, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy it as-is or serve in a toasted roll for a fun twist!
Print
Italian Grinder Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Enjoy the flavors of a classic grinder sandwich in this Italian Grinder Salad! Featuring crunchy iceberg lettuce, creamy Italian dressing, deli meats, provolone cheese, and tangy pepperoncini, this viral salad is perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish.
Ingredients
Dressing:
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1/8 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/8 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salad:
- 1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped
- 1/4 cup sliced red onion
- 1 cup diced tomato
- 1/2 cup chopped pepperoncini
- 1/2 cup diced provolone cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped salami
- 1/2 cup chopped deli turkey
Instructions
Make the Dressing:
- In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, garlic, Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Stir until smooth and well combined.
2. Prepare the Salad:
- Add sliced red onions, pepperoncini, tomatoes, provolone cheese, salami, and turkey to the bowl with the dressing.
- Top with chopped iceberg lettuce and toss everything until the salad is evenly coated with the dressing.
3. Serve:
- Transfer the salad to a serving dish or plates. Enjoy as a standalone dish or pair with garlic bread or chicken wings.
Notes
- For Sandwich Lovers: Toast a hoagie roll and spoon the salad mixture onto the bread for a grinder salad sandwich.
- Customizations: Substitute salami and turkey with your favorite deli meats like ham, pepperoni, or capicola.
- Add Veggies: Include diced cucumber, carrots, or bell peppers for extra crunch and nutrition.
- Cheese Options: Swap provolone with mozzarella, cheddar, or Monterey Jack cheese for a different flavor.
- Spicy Option: Keep the red pepper flakes or add banana peppers for a kick.
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