Italian Grinder Salad (Chopped Sub Salad)

Fresh, hearty, and packed with all the bold flavors you love in a classic Italian sub, this Italian Grinder Salad (Chopped Sub Salad) is the ultimate no-bread version of your favorite sandwich! Crisp lettuce, savory deli meats, provolone, tangy pickled veggies, and a creamy dressing come together for a chopped salad that’s crunchy, zesty, and totally satisfying.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
All the Flavors of a Sub – Without the heavy bread.
Quick to Make – Ready in under 20 minutes.
Perfect for Meal Prep – Stays fresh and crunchy.
Customizable – Add your favorite deli meats or veggies.
Low-Carb & High-Protein – A satisfying meal that’s lighter but just as delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salad:

• 1 small head iceberg lettuce, finely chopped
• 1 cup chopped romaine lettuce
• ½ cup sliced pepperoncini peppers
• ½ cup sliced red onion
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 4 slices turkey or chicken breast, chopped
• 4 slices turkey salami, chopped
• 4 slices turkey deli ham or roast beef, chopped
• 4 slices provolone cheese, chopped
• ¼ cup sliced black olives (optional)

For the Dressing:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins:

• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Diced cucumber for extra crunch
• Crushed red pepper flakes for heat
• Fresh basil or oregano for garnish

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Chopping board and sharp knife
• Whisk or small bowl for dressing
• Salad tongs or spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Set aside.

Step 2: Chop Everything
Finely chop iceberg lettuce, romaine lettuce, deli meats, provolone cheese, red onion, and cherry tomatoes into small, bite-sized pieces.
Slice pepperoncini peppers and olives if using.

Step 3: Toss the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped lettuce, meats, cheese, tomatoes, onions, pepperoncini, and olives.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad.

Step 4: Mix and Serve
Toss everything together thoroughly so every bite is coated in that creamy, tangy dressing.
Serve immediately and garnish with extra pepperoncini or herbs if desired.

Tips for Success
Chop Everything Small – Makes the salad easier to eat and mimics a chopped sub perfectly.
Use Crisp Lettuce – Iceberg and romaine stay crunchy and fresh.
Customize Your Meats – Turkey, chicken, roast beef, or even grilled veggies for a vegetarian version.
Make Extra Dressing – It’s so good, you’ll want more for drizzling!
Serve Fresh – Best enjoyed right after tossing.

Serving Suggestions
As a Main Dish – A hearty and satisfying lunch or dinner.
With Garlic Bread – Serve alongside for a fuller meal.
As a Side – Perfect with pasta, grilled chicken, or pizza night.
For Meal Prep – Keep the dressing separate until ready to eat to maintain crunch.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Store the undressed salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Keep dressing separate and toss just before serving for best texture.

Reheating:
No reheating needed—this salad is best served cold!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other dressings?
   Sure! Italian dressing, ranch, or a vinaigrette would also taste great.
2. Can I make this salad dairy-free?
   Yes, just skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
3. Is this salad keto-friendly?
   Yes! Just make sure your meats and dressing ingredients are low-carb.
4. Can I add pasta to make it a pasta salad?
   Definitely! Cooked and cooled short pasta like rotini would work perfectly.
5. Can I prep this ahead of time?
   Yes—just keep the lettuce and dressing separate until ready to eat.

Final Thoughts
This Italian Grinder Salad (Chopped Sub Salad) is everything you love about a loaded Italian sandwich—crispy lettuce, savory meats, creamy dressing—minus the bread! It’s fresh, flavorful, easy to customize, and absolutely addictive. Whether you’re serving it for lunch, meal prepping for the week, or making it for a party, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.

Chop up a bowl today and enjoy the big, bold flavors! Don’t forget to share your salad creations online!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Cuisine: American / Italian-Inspired

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – serves 4):
Calories: 350 | Protein: 20g | Carbohydrates: 8g | Fat: 27g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 820mg

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