This Italian Grinder Salad is inspired by the viral TikTok grinder sandwich. It transforms all the bold flavors of an Italian sub into a delicious low-carb salad. Packed with crunchy lettuce, savory deli meats, provolone, and a creamy, tangy dressing, it’s a fresh, colorful side dish that’s simply irresistible.
Discover the secrets to making the ultimate Grinder Salad using only naturally low-carb ingredients, and with just a few minutes of preparation, you’ll have a delectable dish that everyone will love. Indulge in a heavenly fusion of savory flavors, reminiscent of the classic Italian sub, but with a refreshing and lighter twist that will leave your taste buds singing with joy.
So say goodbye to boring salads and hello to our mouthwatering Grinder Salad recipe. This salad is a satisfying meal option, loaded with nutrient-rich veggies, protein-packed ingredients, and a creamy homemade dressing.
This sensational mix of fresh greens, crispy toppings, and an irresistible dressing will transport your taste buds to heaven, making every bite a delightful and satisfying experience.
Just imagine all your favorite Italian sub in one easy and quick salad. This grinder salad recipe is a crowd-pleaser for any party or quick lunch. It is a mouthwatering combination of fresh vegetables, protein, cheese, and a creamy dressing that everyone will love.
What Is A Grinder?
Also known as a sub, hoagie, hero, or torpedo, a grinder is a type of sandwich that consists of a long roll or baguette filled with various meats, cheeses, vegetables, and condiments. The ingredients in ginger vary depending on regional preferences and personal tastes.
Why Are You Going To Love This Grinder Salad Recipe
- Extremely easy to make
- It’s hearty, delicious, and refreshing all at the same time.
- Ready in under 20 minutes.
- It is packed with many delicious flavors.
- It can be paired with many types of dressings.
- It can be made ahead of time
- It’s a customizable recipe. Feel free to add your favorite seasoning or vegetables to the salad.
- It’s a healthier dinner or lunch option.
Ingredients For Grinder Salad Recipe
This grinder salad recipe has everything you love in it, starting from crunchy lettuce, deli meats, and cheese. Here is a list of everything you will need:
- Shredded Iceberg Lettuce – This lettuce is perfect because it’s super crunchy and has a light, fresh taste. It’s a great base for your salad. Consider adding arugula for a peppery note, or radicchio for a bitter contrast, complementing the iceberg’s crunch.
- Deli Meats – I went with ham, pepperoni, and salami. Feel free to pick whatever deli meats you love to add some tasty protein to your salad.
- Provolone Cheese – This cheese is a fantastic choice, but if you’re in the mood to mix things up, why not try some sharp cheddar? It can add a bold new twist.
- Tomatoes – Cherry tomatoes are my go-to, but any tomato will do. Pick your favorite kind to add a juicy burst of flavor.
- Pepperoncini Peppers – These peppers are great for adding a bit of zing. If spicy isn’t your thing, feel free to leave them out. Your salad will still be delicious!
- Red Onion: Red onion provides a nice bite and color, but for a milder option, consider soaking the slices in ice water for about 10 minutes before adding them to the salad. You can also use pickled red onions that complement the other ingredients beautifully.
For The Grinder Salad Dressing
- Mayonnaise – you can use homemade mayonnaise or buy it from the store.
- Red Wine Vinegar – you can also use simple vinegar.
- Garlic- you will need fresh minced garlic for this recipe for an intense, delicious flavor.
- Sweetener – use your favorite type of low-carb sweetener.
- Italian Seasoning – you can use homemade Italian seasoning or buy it from the store.
- Salt & Pepper – to taste.
- Red Pepper Chili Flakes – If you like spicy things, add some red pepper flakes to the salad dressing.
How To Make This Italian Grinder Salad Recipe
Get ready to make a delicious grinder salad recipe that is both easy to prepare and incredibly delicious. Follow these simple steps to enjoy this flavorful dish:
Make The Dressing
In a small bowl, add mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, sweetener, Italian seasoning, red pepper chili flakes(if using), salt, and pepper, and whisk until well combined.
Set it aside for a couple of minutes while preparing the rest of the ingredients to allow the flavors to meld together.
Prepare The Salad Ingredients
Slice the ham, salami, and pepperoni into 1/4-inch slices and the provolone cheese into small cubes.
Use a mandoline or food processor to shred the iceberg lettuce thinly.
Assemble The Salad
Add the shredded iceberg lettuce to a large salad bowl, then add the ham, pepperoni, salami, pepperoncini, chopped onion, and cheese cubes.
Drizzle the dressing all over the ingredients and mix until well combined.
Tips For Making The Best Grinder Salad Recipe
- You can prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the fridge for at least 20 minutes to let all the flavors enhance.
- If you plan to enjoy the salad later, I recommend not adding the dressing since the vegetables will get soggy while stored in the fridge.
Recipe Variations
- Add sliced black or green olives for a salty and tangy kick.
- If you like marinated or grilled artichoke hearts, you can add a few for a delicious and unique flavor.
- Add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a rich and slightly sweet flavor.
- Add some extra creaminess to the salad by adding some chunks of ripe avocado.
- Add some crumbled bacon to the salad for a smoky flavor and a crunchy texture.
How To Store
- Fridge: You can store this simple grinder salad recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
- Freezer: This salad cannot be stored in the freezer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Salad In Advance?
Sure, you can prepare the grinder salad in advance and store the ingredients separately from the dressing until serving to prevent sogginess.
Can I Use Any Type of Lettuce For This Grinder Salad?
Sure, feel free to use various types of lettuce for a grinder salad. Some great choices will be romaine lettuce, mixed greens, or spinach.
More Salad Recipes
- Easy Keto Chicken Salad Recipe
- Best Easy and Healthy Tuna Salad
- Watermelon Salad
- Cauliflower Potato Salad
- Roast Pumpkin Salad With Feta
Grinder Salad Recipe
Description
Ingredients
For the grinder salad dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tsp red wine vinegar
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp sweetener
- 1/2 tsp Italian Seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper chili flakes
For the grinder salad
- 16 ounces shredded iceberg lettuce
- 4 ounces ham
- 4 ounces pepperoni
- 4 ounces salami
- 4 ounces of provolone cheese
- 1 pint grape tomatoes halved
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers
- 1/2 red onion diced
Instructions
- Make The Dressing. Mix the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, sweetener, Italian seasoning, red pepper chili flakes(if using), salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Set it aside for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Slice the ham, salami, and pepperoni into 1/4-inch slices and the provolone cheese into small cubes.
- Use a mandoline or food processor to shred the iceberg lettuce thinly.
- Add the shredded iceberg lettuce and the rest of the ingredients to a large salad bowl, then drizzle the dressing all over the ingredients and mix until well combined.
Video
How do we calculate the nutrition info?
These nutrition facts listed are determined using nutrition information from the USDA Food Database. Our nutrition facts are accurate, but if you are using different products, please make your calculations. Net carb count is calculated by subtracting both fiber and sugar alcohols because they don’t raise blood sugar.
