Name: Italian Grinder Salad Sandwich
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 head iceberg lettuce, shredded; 1 large ripe tomato, diced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced or finely diced; 1/2 cup banana peppers, sliced (mild or hot); 1/4 cup black olives, sliced (optional); 4 oz thinly sliced capicola; 4 oz thinly sliced salami; 4 oz thinly sliced ham or prosciutto; 4 oz provolone cheese, thinly sliced and chopped; 4 sub rolls or sections of baguette; For the Dressing:; 1/2 cup good quality mayonnaise; 2 tbsp red wine vinegar; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp dried basil; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste); Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Description

This easy Italian Grinder Salad Sandwich delivers a delightful crunch and a burst of savory, tangy, and fresh flavors in every bite. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

1 head iceberg lettuce, shredded
1 large ripe tomato, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced or finely diced
1/2 cup banana peppers, sliced (mild or hot)
1/4 cup black olives, sliced (optional)
4 oz thinly sliced capicola
4 oz thinly sliced salami
4 oz thinly sliced ham or prosciutto
4 oz provolone cheese, thinly sliced and chopped
4 sub rolls or sections of baguette
For the Dressing:
1/2 cup good quality mayonnaise
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried basil
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare Salad Components: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded lettuce, diced tomato, red onion, banana peppers, and black olives (if using). Thinly slice and chop the capicola, salami, ham, and provolone cheese into bite-sized pieces. Add them to the bowl with the vegetables.
2. Make the Grinder Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed for your preference.
3. Assemble the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the chopped salad ingredients in the large bowl. Toss gently but thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
4. Prepare and Toast Bread: Slice your sub rolls lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through if you prefer a hinged sandwich. Lightly brush the cut sides of the bread with a little olive oil. Toast the cut sides under a broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and slightly crispy. Alternatively, you can toast them in a hot skillet.
5. Build the Sandwich: Generously spoon the Italian grinder salad mixture into each toasted sub roll. Serve immediately and enjoy your incredibly flavorful and satisfying Italian Grinder Salad Sandwich!

Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins (for toasting bread)