Description

This Italian Grinder Salad Sandwich is a viral sensation that brings together layers of Italian deli meats, melty cheese, and a creamy, tangy grinder salad packed with flavor. It’s the ultimate comfort sandwich — crisp, juicy, and ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for an easy lunch, picnic, or quick dinner!

Ingredients

Scale

4 hoagie or sub rolls (or French bread, sliced lengthwise)
8 slices provolone cheese (or mozzarella)
8 slices ham
8 slices salami
8 slices pepperoni
1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
1 tomato, thinly sliced
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup sliced banana peppers
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Grinder Salad: In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, salt, pepper, banana peppers, and shredded lettuce. Stir until evenly coated, then chill while preparing the sandwich.
Toast the Bread: Slice the hoagie rolls open (not all the way through). Layer with provolone cheese and toast in a 375°F oven for about 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and the bread is lightly crisp.
Layer the Meats: Add slices of ham, salami, and pepperoni to each toasted roll. For a warm version, return to the oven for 3 minutes to heat the meats.
Add the Grinder Salad: Spoon a generous amount of the creamy grinder salad over the meats. Top with tomato and red onion slices for freshness.
Assemble and Serve: Close each sandwich, press gently, and slice diagonally. Serve immediately for the best texture.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute half the mayo with Greek yogurt. Add jalapeños or hot honey for a spicy twist. The grinder salad can be made 2–3 days ahead and stored in the fridge in an airtight container.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Sandwich
Method: No-Cook / Toasted
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Calories: 540
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 1020mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 18g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 29g
Cholesterol: 70mg