Italian Grinder Salad 🥗🥪
All the flavors of a classic Italian sub—in salad form! Crispy lettuce, savory meats, zesty peppers, and a tangy dressing make this the ultimate make-ahead potluck star.
Prep Time: 15 mins | Chill Time: 1 hr (optional) | Total Time: 20 mins
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 6 oz (170g) sliced salami, cut into strips
- 6 oz (170g) sliced ham (or capicola), cut into strips
- 6 oz (170g) sliced provolone cheese, cubed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
- ½ cup pepperoncini, sliced
- ¼ cup black olives, sliced (optional)
For the Dressing:
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise (for creaminess)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp honey or sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
For Serving:
- Croutons (or torn crusty bread)
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prep the veggies: Chop lettuce, tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, and pepperoncini. Add to a large bowl.
- Add meats & cheese: Toss in salami, ham, provolone, and olives.
- Make the dressing: Whisk together olive oil, vinegar, mayo, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and honey.
- Combine: Pour dressing over the salad and toss well. Chill 1 hour (optional, for deeper flavor).
- Serve: Top with croutons and Parmesan.
Pro Tips
✔ Meal prep: Keep dressing separate until ready to eat.
✔ Spicy kick: Add sliced jalapeños or hot giardiniera.
✔ Vegetarian twist: Skip the meats, add chickpeas and extra cheese.
Why You’ll Love It
✨ No soggy bread—all the sub flavors without the sogginess!
✨ Perfect for crowds: Double the recipe for parties.
✨ Packable lunch: Stays fresh in a container for 2 days.
Pair with garlic bread or a crisp white wine! Let me know if you’d like a low-carb or keto version. 😊