Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with proteins and fresh vegetables, making it a fulfilling meal.

  • No Cooking Required: Minimal preparation needed, ideal for quick lunches or dinners.

  • Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients to suit dietary preferences or what you have on hand.

  • Meal Prep Friendly: Stores well for a few days, making it great for preparing in advance.

  • Viral Sensation: Inspired by the popular TikTok trend, bringing a modern twist to a classic favorite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • 1 head iceberg lettuce, finely chopped

  • ½ red onion, thinly sliced

  • 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved

  • ½ cup banana peppers, chopped

  • ¼ lb salami, chopped

  • ¼ lb pepperoni, chopped

  • ¼ lb turkey, chopped

  • ¼ lb provolone cheese, chopped

  • ¼ cup grated 

Dressing:

  • ½ cup mayonnaise

  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

  • 1 teaspoon banana pepper juice

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • Pepper, to 

Directions

  1. Prepare the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped iceberg lettuce, sliced red onion, halved grape tomatoes, chopped banana peppers, salami, pepperoni, turkey, provolone cheese, and grated parmesan cheese.

  2. Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, banana pepper juice, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth.

  3. Combine: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.

  4. Serve: Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to allow flavors to 

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

  • Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for added heat.

  • Vegetarian Version: Substitute meats with chickpeas or marinated tofu for a plant-based option.

  • Additional Veggies: Incorporate cucumbers, bell peppers, or olives for extra crunch and flavor.

  • Cheese Alternatives: Use mozzarella, cheddar, or a dairy-free cheese to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

  • Meal Prep: Assemble the salad without the dressing and store in separate containers. Add dressing just before serving to maintain freshness.

FAQs

What is a Grinder Salad?

A Grinder Salad is a deconstructed version of an Italian sub sandwich, featuring similar ingredients like deli meats, cheeses, and vegetables, all tossed together in a tangy dressing.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that all the ingredients, especially the deli meats and cheeses, do not contain gluten.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad up to 2 hours in advance. However, it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the ingredients crisp.

How can I make the dressing lighter?

For a lighter version, you can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or use a combination of both.

Can I add croutons?

Yes, adding croutons will give the salad a delightful crunch and enhance the sandwich-like 

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, by storing the salad and dressing separately, you can prepare this salad in advance and enjoy it throughout the week.

Can I use a different type of lettuce?

While iceberg lettuce provides a nice crunch, you can substitute it with romaine or mixed greens if preferred.

How can I make this salad spicier?

Incorporate spicy ingredients like jalapeños, hot pepperoncini, or a spicy dressing to add heat to the salad.

Can I serve this salad as a sandwich?

Yes, you can spoon the prepared salad onto a hoagie roll or wrap it in a tortilla for a delicious sandwich version.

Conclusion

The Grinder Salad offers a delightful twist on the classic Italian sub sandwich, transforming it into a refreshing and satisfying salad. With its combination of savory meats, creamy cheeses, and crisp vegetables, all tossed in a tangy dressing, it’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a hearty dinner, or a dish to impress at your next gathering, the Grinder Salad is sure to be a hit.


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The Best Grinder Salad

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  • Author: Lisa
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

The Grinder Salad is a fresh, vibrant take on the classic Italian sub sandwich, featuring a combination of hearty deli meats, cheeses, and crisp vegetables, all tossed in a tangy dressing. This satisfying salad is perfect for warm days, quick lunches, or as a crowd-pleasing dish at gatherings. Quick to prepare, customizable, and meal prep-friendly.


Ingredients

  • 1 head iceberg lettuce, finely chopped

  • ½ red onion, thinly sliced

  • 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved

  • ½ cup banana peppers, chopped

  • ¼ lb salami, chopped

  • ¼ lb pepperoni, chopped

  • ¼ lb turkey, chopped

  • ¼ lb provolone cheese, chopped

  • ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • Dressing:

    • ½ cup mayonnaise

    • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

    • 1 teaspoon banana pepper juice

    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

    • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

    • ½ teaspoon salt

  • Pepper, to taste

Instructions

  • Prepare the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped iceberg lettuce, sliced red onion, halved grape tomatoes, chopped banana peppers, salami, pepperoni, turkey, provolone cheese, and grated parmesan cheese.

  • Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, banana pepper juice, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth.

  • Combine: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.

  • Serve: Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.


Notes

Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy twist.Vegetarian Version: Substitute the meats with chickpeas or marinated tofu for a plant-based alternative.Additional Veggies: Add cucumbers, bell peppers, or olives for extra crunch and flavor.Lighter Dressing: Swap the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

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