Grinder Salad

This Grinder Salad is a fresh and flavorful dish made with a variety of deli meats, mozzarella, and vegetables, all tossed in a tangy Italian dressing. With ingredients like salami, pepperoni, prosciutto, and Kalamata olives, this easy salad is perfect for meal prep, a light lunch, or as a side dish for any occasion. It’s customizable with your favorite ingredients and is a great option for gluten-free diets.

A fresh, savory salad featuring a medley of deli meats, mozzarella, and vegetables, all tossed in a flavorful Italian dressing. Perfect as a light meal or a side dish, this Grinder Salad combines tangy, salty, and crunchy elements in every bite.

Ingredients

Salad

• Shredded Romaine lettuce
• ¾ cup mozzarella balls
• 4 oz salami, diced
• 4 oz pepperoni, diced
• 2 oz prosciutto, diced
• ¾ cup mini tomatoes, diced
• ¼ cup pepperoncini, sliced
• Kalamata olives, diced
• Fresh basil, diced

Dressing

• ⅓ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup red wine vinegar
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¾ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

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Instructions

1. Make the Dressing:
   Combine all dressing ingredients—olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lemon juice—in a salad shaker or mason jar. Close the lid tightly and shake well. Refrigerate until ready to use.
2. Prepare the Salad:
   Dice all vegetables and deli meats (salami, pepperoni, prosciutto, tomatoes, pepperoncini, and Kalamata olives). Add them to a large mixing bowl.
3. Toss & Serve:
   Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and toss well to coat all ingredients evenly. Garnish with fresh basil and enjoy!

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Tips

• Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
• If you prefer a milder dressing, reduce the amount of vinegar or garlic powder.
• Chill the dressing in advance to allow the flavors to meld.

Variations and Substitutions

• Meat Swap: Use turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian option like chickpeas instead of the deli meats.
• Cheese: Swap mozzarella for provolone or a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Vegan: Omit the deli meats and cheese, and add more vegetables or vegan protein options like tofu or tempeh.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the salad ingredients and store them separately from the dressing to keep everything fresh. Dress the salad just before serving.

Can I use a different type of vinegar?
You can substitute the red wine vinegar with balsamic or white wine vinegar for a slightly different flavor.

Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, the salad is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check the ingredients of the deli meats and dressing to confirm they’re gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp for a full meal.
• Pair with garlic bread or pita chips for a crunchy side.
• Enjoy as a light lunch or as a starter to an Italian-inspired dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and flavorful with a perfect balance of tangy and savory
• Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights
• Customizable to your taste with plenty of variations
• Great for meal prep, as it holds up well in the fridge for a day or two