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Grinder Salad Recipe

Grinder Salad Recipe

This Grinder Salad is a bold, hearty mix of crisp lettuce, fresh veggies, savory deli meats, and creamy provolone cheese, all tossed in a tangy homemade vinaigrette. Inspired by the classic Grinder sandwich, this salad delivers big flavors with a satisfying crunch—perfect for lunch, dinner, or a side dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: American, Italian-American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad:
  • 1 head romaine or iceberg lettuce chopped
  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • ½ small red onion thinly sliced
  • ½ cup sliced bell peppers any color
  • ¼ cup sliced black olives optional
  • ¼ cup sliced pepperoncini optional
  • 6 oz deli meats mix of turkey, ham, salami, or pepperoni, cut into thin strips
  • 4 oz provolone cheese shredded or sliced into thin strips
  • 1 cup croutons
For the Dressing:
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • ½ tsp garlic powder or 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp dried basil
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional

Method
 

Prepare the Ingredients
  1. Wash and chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Slice the tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, and olives.
  3. Cut the deli meats and provolone cheese into thin strips.
Make the Dressing
  1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  2. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Assemble the Salad
  1. In a large bowl, add the chopped lettuce.
  2. Layer the sliced veggies, deli meats, and cheese on top.
Dress the Salad
  1. Drizzle the homemade vinaigrette over the salad.
  2. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated.
Add the Finishing Touches
  1. Sprinkle croutons on top for extra crunch.
  2. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • You can swap deli meats for grilled chicken or tofu for a healthier or vegetarian option.
  • Whole grain croutons or toasted nuts can add more fiber and crunch.
  • Store the dressing separately if preparing ahead to keep the salad crisp.