The Italian Grinder Salad is a vibrant and hearty salad inspired by the classic Italian grinder sandwich. Packed with fresh vegetables, savory meats, and a zesty dressing, this salad is perfect as a main dish or a side. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of an Italian deli in a healthier format!

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
• 1/2 cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup salami, sliced and chopped
• 1/2 cup ham, sliced and chopped
• 1/2 cup provolone cheese, cubed
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

For the Dressing:

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

Timing

Making the Italian Grinder Salad takes about 15 minutes for preparation.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salad Ingredients

1. Chop Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, roasted red peppers, pepperoncini peppers, and Kalamata olives.
2. Add Meats and Cheese: Add the chopped salami, ham, and provolone cheese to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
3. Add Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle the chopped basil over the salad.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

1. Combine Dressing Ingredients: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Dress the Salad

1. Add Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.

Step 4: Serve

1. Plate and Enjoy: Serve the Italian Grinder Salad immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Italian Grinder Salad (per serving, based on 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	320
Protein	15g
Fat	25g
Carbohydrates	10g
Sugar	2g

Tips for Customization

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the meats and add chickpeas or additional cheese for a vegetarian version.
• Add More Veggies: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, artichokes, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.
• Make it Spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or spicy Italian sausage for a kick.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be kept for a short time.

Conclusion

The Italian Grinder Salad is a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings the taste of an Italian grinder sandwich to your table in a fresh and healthy way. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this salad is sure to please everyone!

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time and store them separately. Dress the salad just before serving to keep it crisp.

What can I serve with this salad?

This salad pairs well with crusty bread, garlic bread, or as a side to grilled meats.