Description
This Italian Grinder Salad is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines crisp iceberg lettuce, tangy banana peppers, fresh grape tomatoes, and a delicious mix of Italian deli meats and cheeses. Tossed in a zesty, creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, and aromatic seasonings, it’s perfect as a satisfying lunch or light dinner option.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 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 Ingredients
- 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 Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the finely chopped iceberg lettuce, thinly sliced red onion, chopped banana peppers, chopped grape tomatoes, salami, pepperoni, turkey, provolone cheese, and grated parmesan cheese. Gently toss together to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- 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 mixture is smooth and well combined, creating a flavorful and creamy dressing.
- Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Toss thoroughly to ensure every bite is coated in the zesty dressing, blending the vibrant flavors together.
- Serve: Transfer the dressed salad onto plates or a serving bowl and enjoy immediately to savor the fresh and tangy Italian flavors.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a lighter dressing.
- Feel free to add or omit deli meats according to your preference to customize the protein content.
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 1 day; however, the lettuce may lose crispness over time.
- To make it gluten-free, ensure all meats and condiments are labeled gluten-free.
- Adjust the amount of banana peppers and pepper juice for desired heat and tanginess.
