Creamy Italian Grinder Salad

If you love a classic Italian grinder sandwich, this Creamy Italian Grinder Salad delivers all that bold deli flavor — without the bread. Crisp lettuce, savory cured meats, tangy peppers, and provolone cheese are tossed in a rich, zesty Italian-style dressing that’s creamy, tangy, and downright addictive.

This viral-style salad is hearty enough to serve as a main dish and perfect for lunch meal prep, potlucks, or easy dinners. Every bite is crunchy, salty, creamy, and packed with that unmistakable Italian sub flavor.

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Why This Grinder Salad Is So Popular

This salad works because it hits every texture and flavor note. Cold, crunchy lettuce contrasts beautifully with silky dressing and hearty meats. Pepperoncini and banana peppers cut through the richness, while oregano and vinegar bring that authentic Italian deli taste.

It’s fast, filling, and completely customizable — and it stays satisfying even without bread.

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Ingredients

Salad:

• 6 cups shredded iceberg lettuce
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ⅓ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• ⅓ cup banana peppers
• ⅓ cup pepperoncini, sliced
• ½ cup provolone cheese, cubed or sliced
• ½ cup salami, sliced
• ½ cup ham, sliced
• ¼ cup pepperoni, sliced

Creamy Italian Dressing:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp salt

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Instructions

1. Add lettuce, tomatoes, onion, banana peppers, pepperoncini, cheese, and meats to a large bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour dressing over salad just before serving.
4. Toss thoroughly until evenly coated.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately.

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The Secret to Authentic Grinder Flavor

The dressing is everything. Red wine vinegar provides tang, oregano adds Italian deli aroma, and mayonnaise creates that creamy sub-shop texture. Tossing just before serving keeps the lettuce crisp while fully coating every bite.

For extra authenticity, use high-quality deli meats and freshly sliced provolone.

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Variations & Add-Ins

• Chopped Grinder Salad: Finely chop everything for even bites
• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or turkey
• Low-Carb: Skip tomatoes and add extra lettuce
• Spicy Grinder: Add crushed red pepper or hot giardiniera
• Pasta Grinder Salad: Toss with cooked tortellini or rotini

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What to Serve with Grinder Salad

• Crusty Italian bread or garlic knots
• Soup (tomato basil or minestrone)
• Roasted potatoes or fries
• Pickles or marinated olives

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Storage Tips

Store salad components and dressing separately for up to 3 days. Toss just before serving to maintain crunch. Once dressed, enjoy immediately.

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Why Everyone Loves This Salad

It tastes indulgent while still feeling fresh. It’s quick to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for anyone who loves bold Italian flavors without turning on the oven.

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Italian Deli Flavor in Every Bite

Creamy Italian Grinder Salad is proof that salads don’t have to be boring. Bold, hearty, and incredibly satisfying, this recipe is a guaranteed favorite for lunch or dinner.