Description

This grinder salad is a flavor-packed, deli-inspired dish that transforms the classic grinder sandwich into a low-carb, high-protein salad. It features crispy lettuce, savory Italian meats, creamy provolone cheese, and a tangy homemade dressing. Whether served on its own or inside a hoagie roll, this quick and easy meal is perfect for lunch or dinner!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Salad:

4 cups shredded iceberg lettuce (or romaine)
½ cup thinly sliced red onions
½ cup cherry tomatoes, diced
¼ cup banana peppers, sliced
¼ cup black olives, sliced (optional)
½ cup salami, chopped
½ cup turkey, chopped
½ cup ham, chopped
½ cup pepperoni, chopped
½ cup provolone cheese, shredded (or Swiss/gouda)
¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

For the Dressing:

½ cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp Dijon mustard
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spice)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salad Ingredients

Shred the iceberg lettuce and place it in a large salad bowl.
Thinly slice the red onions and banana peppers, dice the cherry tomatoes, and chop the black olives if using.
Slice or chop the deli meats (salami, turkey, ham, and pepperoni) into bite-sized pieces.
Shred or slice the provolone cheese and grate the Parmesan.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and Dijon mustard.
Add the garlic powder, oregano, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Mix well until the dressing is smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Add the chopped meats, shredded cheese, and veggies to the bowl of lettuce.
Drizzle the creamy dressing over the salad.
Toss everything together until well coated.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve immediately as a standalone salad or stuff into a hoagie roll for a classic grinder sandwich experience.
Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.

Notes

Meal Prep Tip: Store the ingredients separately and mix the dressing just before serving to keep the salad fresh.
Low-Carb Option: Skip the hoagie roll and enjoy it as a keto-friendly grinder bowl.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Lighter Alternative: Swap mayo for Greek yogurt for a healthier dressing option.

Prep Time: 15 min

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 450 kcal
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 1200 mg
Fat: 34 g
Saturated Fat: 10 g
Unsaturated Fat: 22 g
Trans Fat: 0
Carbohydrates: 8 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 30 g
Cholesterol: 75 mg