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Italian Grinder Salad

Savory Italian Grinder Salad: Your New Go-To Lunch Delight

Experience a flavor explosion with this customizable Italian Grinder Salad featuring savory meats, creamy cheeses, and fresh veggies.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 16 minutes
Total Time 31 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Croutons
  • 4 slices Country-style bread Adds crunch and structure; any rustic bread will do.
  • 3 tablespoons Olive oil Provides richness and helps croutons crisp; use extra-virgin for the best flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher salt Enhances flavor in croutons.
  • 1 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper Adds warmth and spice.
For the Salad
  • 8 ounces Fontina or provolone cheese Provides a creamy texture and rich flavor.
  • 1 cup Kalamata olives Contributes a salty and tangy note.
  • 1 cup Peppadew peppers Adds a sweet, unique bite.
  • 6 cups Iceberg lettuce Offers crunch and juiciness.
  • 1 small Red onion Provides a sharp flavor contrast.
  • 1 cup Cherry tomatoes Adds sweetness and freshness.
  • 8 ounces Pearl mozzarella Gives a creamy, chewy texture.
  • 4 ounces Deli ham Adds savory meatiness.
  • 4 ounces Salami Offers bold flavor.
For the Dressing
  • 3 tablespoons Red wine vinegar Provides acidity to balance flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried oregano Imparts classic Italian flavor.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • baking sheet
  • Large Bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Italian Grinder Salad
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Tear the country-style bread into bite-sized pieces, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with kosher salt and black pepper. Toss to coat and bake for 14–16 minutes until golden brown.
  3. While croutons bake, slice the cheese, chop the olives and Peppadew peppers, and set aside.
  4. In a large bowl, add chopped iceberg lettuce, sliced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, deli ham, salami, chopped olives, and Peppadew peppers. Fold in the croutons.
  5. Drizzle with red wine vinegar and olive oil, sprinkle with oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
  6. Serve immediately on individual plates, adjusting seasoning if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 15gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 1100mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Customize with your favorite ingredients, focusing on vibrant, Italian flavors.

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