Name: Italian Grinder Salad
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 head iceberg lettuce, finely chopped: Provides a crisp, refreshing base, adding volume and a satisfying crunch.; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced: Introduces a sharp, piquant flavor, offering a nice contrast to the other elements.; 1/3 cup chopped banana peppers: Impart a tangy zest, enhancing the overall flavor profile with a sweet and mild heat.; 1 cup chopped grape tomatoes: Contribute a juicy sweetness, balancing the savory meats and cheeses.; 1/4 lb salami, chopped: Adds a robust, garlicky dimension, bringing a traditional Italian essence to the mix.; 1/4 lb pepperoni, chopped: Provides a spicy kick, injecting the salad with a bold, smoky undertone.; 1/4 lb turkey, chopped: Offers a lighter protein option, ensuring a well-rounded flavor and texture.; 1/4 lb provolone cheese, chopped: Lends a creamy, mild sharpness, binding the components with its melty texture.; 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese: Enhances the dish with a nutty, salty depth, elevating the overall taste experience.

Description

Transform your mealtime with our Italian Grinder Salad! A deconstructed version of the beloved sandwich, this vibrant salad is bursting with flavors and perfect for any occasion. Dive into a mix of crunchy lettuce, savory deli meats, tangy cheeses, and a zesty dressing for a dish that’s as satisfying as it is nutritious.

Ingredients

Scale

1 head iceberg lettuce, finely chopped: Provides a crisp, refreshing base, adding volume and a satisfying crunch.
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced: Introduces a sharp, piquant flavor, offering a nice contrast to the other elements.
1/3 cup chopped banana peppers: Impart a tangy zest, enhancing the overall flavor profile with a sweet and mild heat.
1 cup chopped grape tomatoes: Contribute a juicy sweetness, balancing the savory meats and cheeses.
1/4 lb salami, chopped: Adds a robust, garlicky dimension, bringing a traditional Italian essence to the mix.
1/4 lb pepperoni, chopped: Provides a spicy kick, injecting the salad with a bold, smoky undertone.
1/4 lb turkey, chopped: Offers a lighter protein option, ensuring a well-rounded flavor and texture.
1/4 lb provolone cheese, chopped: Lends a creamy, mild sharpness, binding the components with its melty texture.
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese: Enhances the dish with a nutty, salty depth, elevating the overall taste experience.

Instructions

Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix iceberg lettuce, red onion, banana peppers, grape tomatoes, salami, pepperoni, turkey, provolone cheese, and parmesan cheese thoroughly.
Prepare the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, banana pepper juice, garlic powder, oregano, and salt until smooth. Adjust with black pepper to taste.
Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture, tossing well to ensure every ingredient is beautifully coated and flavors meld perfectly.
Serve and Enjoy: Once dressed, serve the salad immediately, savoring the burst of flavors and the delightful interplay of textures.

Notes

Variations: Experiment with different meats or cheeses to customize the salad to your preference. Each variation can bring a new dimension to the familiar dish.
Storing: If you anticipate leftovers, store the dressing and salad separately to prevent sogginess. Properly stored, the components can last several days in the refrigerator.

Prep Time: 30
Category: Appetizer
Cuisine: Italian-American