Can I make Italian Grinder Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad ahead of time, but it's best to keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve. This prevents the lettuce from wilting.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the dressing?

You can use Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter option, or even a vinaigrette if you prefer a tangier dressing.

Is the Italian Grinder Salad gluten-free?

To make the salad gluten-free, use gluten-free croutons, or eliminate them entirely. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

How can I add more vegetables to the salad?

Feel free to include any of your favorite veggies, such as cucumbers, bell peppers, or shredded carrots for extra crunch and nutrition.

Can I use other types of cheese instead of provolone?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute provolone with mozzarella, cheddar, or even feta cheese for a different flavor profile.

Italian Grinder Salad

Description

The Italian Grinder Salad is a bold, satisfying salad version of the classic Italian grinder sandwich. Packed with crisp iceberg lettuce, savory deli meats, cheese, crunchy croutons, and a tangy creamy dressing, it’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale

16 oz shredded iceberg lettuce
4 oz smoked deli ham
4 oz large deli pepperoni
4 oz salami
5 slices provolone cheese, chopped
1 container grape tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
1/2 cup pepperoncini peppers, thinly sliced
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 cup croutons

Dressing Ingredients:

1/2 cup mayo
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
2 tbsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

Optional Add-Ons:

Sliced cucumber
Avocado
Olives

Instructions

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayo, olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
In a large salad bowl, combine the shredded iceberg lettuce, ham, pepperoni, salami, provolone cheese, grape tomatoes, red onion, and pepperoncini peppers.
Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well combined.
Top with grated parmesan cheese and croutons.
Add any optional ingredients like cucumber, avocado, or olives, if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

To keep croutons crunchy, add them just before serving.
Chill the salad before tossing with dressing for a more refreshing experience.
Feel free to use pre-sliced deli meats to save prep time.
This salad pairs well with a side of garlic bread or a glass of red wine.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Tossed
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
Calories: 420
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 1180mg
Fat: 34g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 22g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 17g
Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: Italian grinder salad, deli meat salad, Italian sub salad, no-cook salad, pepperoni salad