Italian Grinder Salad Recipe

Introduction

This Italian Grinder Salad brings all the savory flavors of a classic deli sandwich into a fresh, crunchy salad. Packed with meats, cheese, and tangy banana peppers, it’s a satisfying and easy meal that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 head iceberg lettuce, finely chopped
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/3 cup chopped banana peppers
• 1 cup chopped grape tomatoes
• 1/4 lb salami, chopped
• 1/4 lb pepperoni, chopped
• 1/4 lb turkey, chopped
• 1/4 lb provolone cheese, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp banana pepper juice
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped iceberg lettuce, red onion, banana peppers, grape tomatoes, salami, pepperoni, turkey, provolone cheese, and grated parmesan cheese.
2. Step 2: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, banana pepper juice, garlic powder, dried oregano, and salt until smooth. Season with black pepper to taste.
3. Step 3: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss well to evenly coat all ingredients.
4. Step 4: Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh flavors of this hearty Italian salad.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch, add sliced cucumbers or bell peppers to the salad.
• Use turkey or chicken instead of salami and pepperoni for a lighter version.
• If you prefer a tangier dressing, increase the red wine vinegar by 1 tablespoon.
• Fresh oregano can be substituted for dried for a brighter herbal flavor.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To prevent sogginess, keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving. This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated briefly if served warm is desired, though it’s traditionally served cold.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this salad vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the salami, pepperoni, and turkey. You can add extra cheese, beans, or roasted vegetables to maintain protein and flavor.

What can I use instead of banana peppers?

If banana peppers aren’t available, pickled pepperoncini or mild jalapeños make good substitutes and provide similar tang and mild heat.

Italian Grinder Salad Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 104 reviews

This Italian Grinder Salad is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines crisp iceberg lettuce with classic Italian deli meats, cheeses, and tangy banana peppers. Tossed in a creamy, zesty dressing made from mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, and Italian seasonings, it’s a delicious and easy-to-make salad perfect for lunch, picnics, or casual dinners.

• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Salad Ingredients

• 1 head iceberg lettuce, finely chopped
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/3 cup chopped banana peppers
• 1 cup chopped grape tomatoes
• 1/4 lb salami, chopped
• 1/4 lb pepperoni, chopped
• 1/4 lb turkey, chopped
• 1/4 lb provolone cheese, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

Dressing Ingredients

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp banana pepper juice
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Salad Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped iceberg lettuce, thinly sliced red onion, chopped banana peppers, chopped grape tomatoes, chopped salami, chopped pepperoni, chopped turkey, chopped provolone cheese, and grated parmesan cheese. Mix gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, add the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, banana pepper juice, garlic powder, dried oregano, and salt. Stir or shake until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Season with black pepper to your taste preference.
3. Toss the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the mixed salad ingredients in the large bowl. Use salad tongs or two large spoons to toss the salad thoroughly, ensuring every bite is coated with the creamy dressing and all ingredients are well mixed.
4. Serve: Once tossed, serve the Italian Grinder Salad immediately to enjoy its fresh, vibrant flavors. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or as a side to your favorite Italian meal.

Notes

• For best flavor, use freshly grated parmesan and good-quality deli meats.
• The salad can be prepared a few hours in advance, but for crispness, add the dressing just before serving.
• Adjust the amount of banana pepper juice and black pepper according to your spice preference.
• This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 1 day but may wilt if left too long after dressing.
• For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a low-fat mayo alternative.

Keywords: Italian Salad, Grinder Salad, Deli Meat Salad, Provolone Salad, Easy Salad Recipe, No Cook Salad, Lunch Salad