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Boldly Flavored Italian Grinder Salad

Boldly Flavored Italian Grinder Salad

Boldly Flavored Italian Grinder Salad is your new go-to for a quick, satisfying, and incredibly tasty meal that brings all the vibrant flavors of a classic Italian sub right into a refreshing salad. This recipe is exceptionally useful for busy weeknights or when you crave that signature Italian deli experience without the fuss.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 head crisp romaine lettuce, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced salami
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced pepperoni
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced ham (deli style)
  • 1/4 cup sliced red onion
  • 1/4 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers
  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup Italian vinaigrette dressing (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • to taste salt and freshly ground black pepper

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped romaine lettuce and shredded iceberg lettuce. Ensure the greens are thoroughly washed and dried to prevent a watery salad. This crisp base is essential for holding up to the hearty toppings.
    1 head crisp romaine lettuce, finely chopped, 1/2 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
  2. To the bowl with the lettuce, add the thinly sliced salami, pepperoni, and ham. Distribute the meats evenly throughout the greens. The variety of cured meats provides a savory depth that is characteristic of an Italian grinder.
    1/2 cup thinly sliced salami, 1/2 cup thinly sliced pepperoni, 1/2 cup thinly sliced ham (deli style)
  3. Scatter the sliced red onion, pepperoncini peppers, and sliced black olives over the meat and lettuce mixture. The tangy kick from the pepperoncini and the briny flavor of the olives are crucial for balancing the richness of the meats.
    1/4 cup sliced red onion, 1/4 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers, 1/4 cup sliced black olives
  4. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and provolone cheeses over the salad. The melty, slightly sharp Italian cheeses add another layer of deliciousness and a satisfying chewiness.
    1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese
  5. Finely chop the fresh parsley and add it to the salad for a burst of freshness and a touch of color. Parsley elevates the overall flavor profile and adds a beautiful visual appeal.
    1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  6. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Italian vinaigrette dressing, and red wine vinegar. Add the dried oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix until smooth and well combined.
    1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup Italian vinaigrette dressing (store-bought or homemade), 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, to taste salt and freshly ground black pepper
  7. Pour about half of the prepared creamy Italian dressing over the salad. Toss gently to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated. Add more dressing as needed, to your preference, but be careful not to overdress, which can make the salad soggy.
  8. Once tossed, the Boldly Flavored Italian Grinder Salad is ready to be served. Enjoy your vibrant and delicious creation right away for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It's best to store the salad *undressed* if possible to prevent the greens from becoming soggy.
This salad is not ideal for freezing due to the fresh ingredients like lettuce, meats, and cheese, which can lose their texture and quality upon thawing.
This salad is meant to be enjoyed cold, so no reheating is necessary. If you stored it undressed, simply add your desired amount of dressing and toss well before serving.