Italian Grinder Chopped Salad

This Italian Grinder Salad is all about delivering that classic deli sub flavor in a fresh crunchy bowl minus the bread It is layered with crisp lettuce vibrant veggies and loads of savory meats then tossed in a creamy herby dressing that brings every bite together perfectly

I needed a no fuss lunch to satisfy my sub cravings one summer and this hit the spot the colors and flavors totally won my family over and now it is my go to for picnic potlucks

Ingredients

• Iceberg lettuce: Finely chopped for extra crunch and fresh flavor Always pick a firm heavy head with tight leaves for the best texture
• Red onion: Thinly sliced for a little bite The color adds visual pop too
• Banana peppers: Chopped for tangy zip Choose ones packed in brine for best flavor
• Grape tomatoes: Chopped for sweet juicy notes Look for firm tomatoes that hold their shape
• Salami: Chopped for classic deli flavor Go for a thicker slice if you want more texture
• Pepperoni: Chopped for spice and rich flavor Sliced from the deli counter is ideal
• Turkey: Chopped for lean protein A fresh oven roasted turkey breast has the best taste
• Provolone cheese: Chopped for creamy melt Choose a high quality provolone in block form
• Parmesan cheese: Grated for salty richness A wedge you grate yourself will be most flavorful
• Mayonnaise: Makes the dressing base Use real full fat mayo for richness
• Red wine vinegar: Key for tang opt for a good brand with robust color and taste
• Banana pepper juice: Adds extra zing right from the jar
• Garlic powder: Lends mellow allium depth
• Dried oregano: Brings herbal Italian flavor
• Salt and pepper: Balances and brightens the dressing taste as you go

Step by Step Instructions

Prep the Produce:

Chop the iceberg lettuce into fine bite sized pieces Slice red onion very thin so it melds throughout Chop banana peppers and grape tomatoes for evenly sized bursts of color and crunch

Chop the Meats and Cheese:

Dice salami pepperoni turkey and provolone cheese into small cubes or strips so every forkful gets something savory

Mix the Salad Base:

Pile the lettuce red onion banana peppers grape tomatoes salami pepperoni turkey provolone and parmesan into a huge salad bowl Toss with clean hands or tongs so ingredients distribute evenly

Make the Dressing:

In a small bowl whisk mayo red wine vinegar banana pepper juice garlic powder oregano and salt until smooth Add pepper to taste Sample with a lettuce leaf to check the seasoning

Dress and Toss:

Pour the tangy dressing all over the salad Gently toss so that everything gets nicely coated the lettuce will soften a little but stay crisp if you serve right away

Serve Fresh:

Spoon into bowls or plates Eat immediately for best crunch and flavor

Save

The provolone is my absolute favorite part of this salad It turns every forkful into a silky Italian bite that feels like true deli shop comfort Once my cousin tasted this at a family reunion she instantly asked for the recipe so it is now a staple at every big gathering

Storage Tips

Store leftover dressed salad in an airtight container in the fridge It will keep well for up to one day before the lettuce starts to wilt If you plan to meal prep keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving This keeps the lettuce and meats as fresh and crisp as possible

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap out any deli meat or use what you have like ham roast beef or chicken Instead of provolone try mozzarella or swiss for a different creamy element Veggies can be switched too try shredded carrots or sliced radishes for extra crunch and color

Serving Suggestions

Serve this salad as a main dish for lunch or dinner It is hearty enough on its own but also great as a side with soup pasta or garlic bread Set it out in a big bowl for picnics or parties just like you would a sub sandwich platter

Cultural and Historical Context

Inspired by the classic Italian American grinder sandwich this salad is all about bold layered flavors with roots in East Coast delis The chopped salad method comes from Italian sub shops where big flavors and communal sharing are part of the fun So making this dish at home feels like bringing the spirit of a bustling deli right into your kitchen

Recipe FAQs

→ What meats work best in this grinder chopped salad?

Classic deli meats like salami, pepperoni, and turkey provide bold flavors and hearty texture. You can also add ham or roast beef to suit your taste.

→ Can I use a different type of lettuce?

Iceberg lettuce adds crunch, but romaine or mixed greens can also be used for a slightly different bite and added nutrients.

→ Is the dressing spicy?

The dressing has a tangy, zesty flavor from red wine vinegar and banana pepper juice, but it’s not overly spicy. Add extra pepper or hot peppers to increase heat.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Keep the salad components and dressing separate if making ahead. Once tossed, store in an airtight container and enjoy within a day for best texture.

→ Can this salad be made ahead of time?

Chop and prep all ingredients in advance and combine just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.