Italian Grinder Salad is a vibrant and hearty salad inspired by the classic Italian grinder sandwich. This dish combines fresh vegetables, deli meats, cheese, and a zesty dressing, making it a perfect meal for lunch or dinner. It’s refreshing, packed with flavor, and can be easily customized to suit your taste!

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
• 1 cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced (or banana peppers)
• 1 cup salami, sliced into strips
• 1 cup ham, sliced into strips
• 1 cup provolone cheese, cubed or shredded
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Timing

Making Italian Grinder Salad takes about 15 minutes for preparation.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

1. Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl or jar, combine the red wine vinegar, olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake well until emulsified.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

1. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, roasted red peppers, pepperoncini peppers, salami, ham, provolone cheese, and Kalamata olives.
2. Add Dressing: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are coated.

Step 3: Serve

1. Garnish: Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
2. Enjoy: Serve immediately or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Italian Grinder Salad (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	350
Protein	18g
Fat	28g
Carbohydrates	10g
Sugar	3g

Tips for Customization

• Add More Veggies: Feel free to include additional vegetables like bell peppers, artichokes, or radishes for extra crunch.
• Protein Variations: Substitute deli meats with grilled chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based protein for a different flavor profile.
• Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, feta, or cheddar for variety.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad may become slightly soggy over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Conclusion

Italian Grinder Salad is a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy the flavors of an Italian grinder sandwich in a healthy salad form. Perfect for meal prep or a quick meal, this salad is sure to please!

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the salad ingredients and dressing separately and combine them just before serving for the best texture.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad holds up well in the refrigerator and makes for a great lunch option throughout the week.