Description
Mediterranean-inspired grinder salad brings zesty Italian deli flavors to your plate with layers of cold cuts, provolone, and crisp vegetables. Packed with bold tastes and fresh ingredients, this quick lunch option delivers satisfying protein and crunch you won’t want to miss.
Ingredients
Scale
Dressing:
- 3/4 cup (177 ml) mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/8 cup (30 ml) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salad Proteins and Cheeses:
- 1/2 cup (75 g) chopped salami
- 1/2 cup (75 g) chopped deli turkey
- 1/2 cup (75 g) diced provolone cheese
Salad Base and Vegetables:
- 1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup (150 g) diced tomato
- 1/4 cup (40 g) sliced red onion
- 1/2 cup (75 g) pepperoncini
Instructions
- In a spacious mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until a smooth, creamy dressing forms.
- Add sliced red onion, pepperoncini, diced tomatoes, provolone cheese, chopped salami, and deli turkey to the dressing. Stir thoroughly to ensure each ingredient is evenly coated and flavor is distributed.
- Gently fold in crisp iceberg lettuce, tossing carefully to prevent wilting. Ensure the lettuce receives an even coating of dressing while maintaining its crunchy texture.
- Allow the salad to rest for 5-10 minutes at room temperature, allowing flavors to meld together before serving. This brief resting period enhances the overall taste profile of the dish.
- Serve immediately in chilled bowls to maintain the salad’s freshness and crispness. Optional: Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra zest.
Notes
- Customize the dressing by adjusting spice levels with more or less red pepper flakes for personal heat preference.
- Swap out protein options like replacing salami and turkey with grilled chicken, vegetarian alternatives, or plant-based deli slices for dietary flexibility.
- Enhance crunch by adding toasted pine nuts or crispy croutons for extra texture and depth of flavor.
- Prepare ingredients ahead of time and mix just before serving to maintain lettuce’s crisp texture and prevent wilting from early dressing contact.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Snacks
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 40mg