Description
This Italian Grinder Salad is a flavorful and hearty dish that combines crisp iceberg lettuce with an assortment of classic Italian deli meats, cheeses, and tangy vegetables. Tossed in a creamy, zesty dressing with red wine vinegar and banana pepper juice, this salad offers the vibrant flavors of a traditional Italian grinder sandwich without the bread. Perfect for a light lunch or a satisfying side, it’s easy to prepare and serves about five and a half people.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 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
- 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
- Combine the salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the finely chopped iceberg lettuce, thinly sliced red onion, chopped banana peppers, chopped grape tomatoes, chopped salami, pepperoni, turkey, provolone cheese, and grated parmesan cheese. Mix gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, banana pepper juice, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Toss the salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Toss thoroughly to ensure every component is coated with the creamy, tangy dressing.
- Serve and enjoy: Transfer the dressed salad onto serving plates or a large platter. Serve immediately for the freshest flavors.
Notes
- The salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 1 day; toss again before serving.
- Adjust the salt and pepper in the dressing to suit your taste preferences.
- For a lighter version, substitute mayo with Greek yogurt or use a low-fat mayonnaise.
- Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley can enhance the flavor.
- Feel free to swap out or add other Italian cold cuts or cheeses as desired.
