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Italian Grinder Salad

A comforting and vibrant salad that captures the flavors of a classic Italian deli sandwich in a shareable bowl, perfect for quick dinners and gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

Salad Base

  • 8 cups Romaine or mixed greens, chopped Crisp base with good structure.
  • 2 cups Cherry tomatoes, halved Juicy bursts of sweetness.
  • 1 large Cucumber, diced Cooling crunch.
  • 1 small Red onion, thinly sliced For a mild, tangy bite; soak in cold water if you want less heat.
  • 1 cup Roasted red peppers, sliced Smoky sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup Black olives, sliced Briny contrast.
  • 1 cup Genoa salami, chopped Classic sub flavor; substitute turkey or ham for a lighter option.
  • 1 cup Capicola or pepperoni, chopped Adds spice; omit for a vegetarian version and add chickpeas.
  • 1 cup Provolone or mozzarella, cubed or shredded Melty richness; nutritional yeast works for a dairy-free option.
  • 1/4 cup Pepperoncini, sliced Optional, adds zing.
  • 1 handful Fresh basil, torn Bright herbaceous lift.

Dressing

  • 1/3 cup Olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons Red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dried oregano
  • 1 clove Garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Chop the romaine, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice cucumbers, slice the onion, and chop the salami and capicola.

Make the Dressing

  • Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, oregano, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl or shake everything in a jar until emulsified.
  • Taste and adjust: add more honey for sweetness or more vinegar for tang.

Combine the Salad

  • In a very large bowl, layer the greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, roasted red peppers, olives, pepperoncini, cheeses, and meats.
  • Toss gently but thoroughly so every piece gets a little dressing.

Let it Rest

  • Allow the salad to sit for 5 minutes so flavors meld.

Serve

  • Garnish with fresh basil and an extra drizzle of dressing. Serve immediately.

Notes

For a lighter dressing, use lemon juice instead of red wine vinegar. Store dressing separately and toss just before serving if making ahead.
Keyword Chopped Sub Salad, Fresh Ingredients, Grinder Salad, Italian Salad, Summer Salad