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Viral Italian Grinder Salad (Chopped Sub Salad)

A vibrant, close-up view of a hearty grinder salad featuring lettuce, salami, ham, cheese cubes, peppers, and red onion.

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Make the viral Italian Grinder Salad, a low-carb, chopped sub salad that captures the flavor of a classic grinder sandwich without the bread. This recipe is quick, healthy, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

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  • 1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped
  • 1 cup shredded romaine lettuce
  • 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
  • 1/2 cup sliced salami
  • 1/2 cup sliced ham
  • 1/2 cup provolone cheese, cubed or shredded
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup banana peppers, sliced
  • 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • For the Grinder Salad Dressing: 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Grinder Salad Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.
  2. Combine the salad base: In a large bowl, combine the chopped iceberg lettuce and romaine lettuce.
  3. Add the sandwich components: Add the pepperoni, salami, ham, provolone cheese, red onion, banana peppers, black olives, and tomatoes to the lettuce mixture.
  4. Dress the salad: Pour the prepared Grinder Salad Dressing over the salad ingredients.
  5. Toss well: Gently toss all ingredients until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
  6. Serve immediately: Serve this hearty low carb sandwich salad right away for the best texture.

Notes

  • For meal prepping, store the dressing separately and combine just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp.
  • You can substitute the deli meats for rotisserie chicken for a different protein base.
  • This recipe works well when made ahead for lunch, as the provolone cheese holds up better than some other cheeses.

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