Description
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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Ingredients
For the Salad:
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1 small head iceberg lettuce, finely chopped
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1 cup chopped romaine lettuce
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½ cup sliced pepperoncini peppers
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½ cup sliced red onion
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½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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4 slices turkey or chicken breast, chopped
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4 slices turkey salami, chopped
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4 slices turkey deli ham or roast beef, chopped
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4 slices provolone cheese, chopped
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¼ cup sliced black olives (optional)
For the Dressing:
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½ cup mayonnaise
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2 tbsp red wine vinegar
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tsp Dijon mustard
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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1 clove garlic, minced
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Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
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Shredded mozzarella cheese
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Diced cucumber for extra crunch
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Crushed red pepper flakes for heat
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Fresh basil or oregano for garnish
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.
Notes
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.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: American / Italian-Inspired