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Italian Grinder Salad Sandwich Recipe

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4.9 from 87 reviews

This Italian Grinder Salad Sandwich combines the crisp freshness of a tangy grinder salad with layers of flavorful Italian meats and provolone cheese. Served on toasted sub rolls and topped with ripe tomato slices, it’s a perfect balance of textures and flavors making for a delicious, hearty lunch or casual dinner.

Ingredients

For the Grinder Salad

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 head iceberg lettuce, shredded
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/3 cup banana peppers, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Sandwiches

  • 3 sub rolls
  • 1/4 pound salami
  • 1/4 pound pepperoni
  • 1/4 pound sliced turkey
  • 1/4 pound provolone cheese
  • 1 tomato, sliced

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Grinder Salad: In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix these dressing ingredients well until fully blended. Next, stir in the shredded iceberg lettuce, thinly sliced red onions, and sliced banana peppers until all components are evenly coated with the dressing.
  2. Assemble the Sandwiches: Slice each sub roll lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Layer 1/4 pound each of salami, pepperoni, turkey, and provolone cheese evenly inside each roll to build a meaty, cheesy base for your sandwich.
  3. Broil the Sandwiches: Preheat your oven’s broiler and place the assembled sandwiches on a baking sheet. Broil them for 2 to 3 minutes just until the provolone cheese melts and becomes slightly bubbly, taking care not to burn the bread.
  4. Add Fresh Toppings: Remove the sandwiches from the oven and immediately add a layer of fresh tomato slices on top of the melted cheese. Then, generously spoon the prepared grinder salad mixture over the tomato slices to add cool, tangy crunchiness.
  5. Finish and Serve: Gently close each sandwich to keep the fillings inside. For easier handling, cut the sandwiches in half if desired before serving warm.

Notes

  • You can substitute banana peppers with pepperoncini if desired for a similar tangy kick.
  • For a spicier sandwich, add a few dashes of hot sauce to the grinder salad dressing.
  • Use fresh sub rolls with a sturdy crust to hold the ingredients without becoming soggy.
  • Make the grinder salad ahead and refrigerate to let the flavors meld before assembling.
  • If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the meats and add more cheese and vegetables.