Description

This Italian Grinder Salad Sandwich is a savory and easy-to-make delight inspired by the classic Italian sub. Featuring a tangy dressed shredded lettuce salad, layers of salami, pepperoni, turkey, and provolone cheese, all broiled to melty perfection and topped with fresh tomato and Parmesan, this sandwich offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

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Dressing and Salad

1/2 cup Mayonnaise (can substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
2 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar (substitute with apple cider vinegar if needed)
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (fresh minced garlic can be used instead)
1 teaspoon Oregano (Italian seasoning blend works as a substitute)
Salt, to taste (use sea salt for deeper taste)
Pepper, to taste (use cracked black pepper for deeper taste)
2 cups Shredded Lettuce (any mixed greens can be used instead)
1/4 cup Sliced Red Onion (or green onions or shallots)
1/2 cup Banana Peppers (pickles or jalapeños as substitutes)

Sandwich Fillings

4 oz Salami and Pepperoni (or other deli meats)
8 oz Turkey (omit for vegetarian or replace with grilled vegetables)
4 slices Provolone Cheese (mozzarella works too)
1 large Tomato, sliced (any ripe variety)
1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional but recommended)
4 Sub rolls (not listed in original but implied for sandwiches)

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Instructions

Preparation: Begin by gathering all ingredients and preheating your oven’s broiler to high to prepare for melting the cheese later.
Make the Dressing and Salad: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. Then stir in the shredded lettuce, sliced red onion, and banana peppers until everything is fully coated with the dressing.
Assemble the Sandwich Meat and Cheese: Evenly divide the salami, pepperoni, and turkey among the sub rolls. Then layer slices of provolone cheese on top of the meats in each sandwich.
Broil the Sandwiches: Place the assembled sandwiches on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye until the cheese has melted and the meats become slightly crispy and warm.
Add Fresh Toppings: Carefully remove the sandwiches from the oven. Layer fresh tomato slices on top of the melted cheese, sprinkle each with salt and pepper to taste, then spoon the prepared grinder salad mixture evenly onto each sandwich. Finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Serve: Close the sandwiches, slice them in half for easy handling, and serve immediately to enjoy the perfect blend of savory, tangy, and fresh flavors.

Notes

You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier dressing option.
If red wine vinegar is not available, apple cider vinegar works well as a replacement.
Fresh minced garlic can replace garlic powder for a more robust flavor.
Use your choice of deli meats or grilled vegetables for a vegetarian alternative.
Keep an eye on the sandwiches while broiling to prevent burning.
For a spicier version, substitute banana peppers with pickled jalapeños.
Use sea salt and cracked black pepper for a more complex seasoning.
The Parmesan cheese topping adds a nice salty and nutty finish but is optional.