Grinder Salad Recipe

Introduction

This Grinder Salad is a flavorful, hearty dish inspired by the classic deli sandwich. Packed with fresh veggies, savory meats, and a tangy homemade dressing, it’s perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner.

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/8 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped
• 1/4 cup sliced red onion
• 1 cup diced tomato
• 1/2 cup pepperoncini
• 1/2 cup diced provolone cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped salami
• 1/2 cup chopped deli turkey

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well until the dressing is smooth and evenly mixed.
2. Step 2: Add the sliced red onion, pepperoncini, diced tomatoes, provolone cheese, chopped salami, and deli turkey to the bowl. Top with the chopped iceberg lettuce, then toss everything thoroughly to coat all ingredients with the dressing.

Tips & Variations

• Use a mix of greens like romaine or spinach along with iceberg for more texture and nutrients.
• Substitute turkey with ham or roast beef for different flavor profiles.
• For a lighter dressing, swap half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.

Storage

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Toss gently before serving to redistribute the dressing. It’s best enjoyed fresh, as the lettuce can become soggy over time.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, the dressing can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before adding it to the salad.

What can I use if I don’t have pepperoncini?

You can substitute pepperoncini with banana peppers or mild jalapeños for a similar tangy kick.

Grinder Salad Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 50 reviews

A fresh and flavorful Grinder Salad that combines crunchy iceberg lettuce with savory Italian meats, cheeses, and a tangy homemade dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this salad captures the classic flavors of a deli grinder sandwich in a refreshing, tossed salad format.

• Author: Windy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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Dressing

• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/8 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salad

• 1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped
• 1/4 cup sliced red onion
• 1 cup diced tomato
• 1/2 cup pepperoncini
• 1/2 cup diced provolone cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped salami
• 1/2 cup chopped deli turkey

Instructions

1. Prepare the dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated and a smooth dressing forms.
2. Add the salad ingredients: To the bowl with the dressing, add the sliced red onion, pepperoncini, diced tomatoes, diced provolone cheese, chopped salami, and chopped deli turkey. Stir gently to evenly coat all the ingredients with the dressing.
3. Mix in the lettuce: Top the mixture with the chopped iceberg lettuce and toss the salad thoroughly until the lettuce is well coated with the dressing and all components are evenly distributed.

Notes

• For a spicier salad, increase the red pepper flakes or add freshly ground black pepper to taste.
• Feel free to substitute provolone with mozzarella or cheddar cheese if preferred.
• Use fresh garlic instead of minced garlic for a more pronounced flavor.
• To keep the salad crisp for longer, add the lettuce just before serving.

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