The Best Grinder Salad Ever aka Creamy Italian-Style Chopped Salad (2024)

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Grinder Salad. Let’s make a wonderfully tangy Italian-style chopped salad that not only tastes amazing, but also takes no time to throw together. My grinder salad is absolutely fantastic and the best you’ll ever have. Make it once, and enjoy it over and over again!

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What You’ll Need for Your Grinder Salad

The Dressing

• Mayo
• Parmesan
• Peperoncinis (or mild banana peppers)
• Red Wine Vinegar
• Dried Oregano
• Fresh Parsley
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
• Salt and Pepper

The Salad

• Iceberg Lettuce
• Red Onion
• Cucumbers
• Tomatoes
• Ham
• Salami
• Fresh Parsley Leaves

Making the grinder salad Dressing

The grinder salad dressing could not be easier and will take just a few minutes to create. Mix everything together and that’s it! Minimal prep. Minimal effort. Maximum flavor!

However, peperoncinis can have a little heat. If you’re not a fan of spicy, just substitute mild banana peppers. They’ll work perfectly!

Fresh Parsley

Let’s talk about fresh parsley for just a minute. This is an ingredient I would suggest looking for if you don’t have any on hand. The flavor makes a huge difference in both the dressing and the salad itself.

Parsley is very affordable and can be found relatively easy in the produce section of many supermarkets. Not only that, but it’s extremely good for you. It’s a vitamin and mineral powerhouse that tastes good. It’s a win-win. Go find some!

Making the Salad

Usually, I am not the biggest fan of only iceberg in a salad. However, this is definitely an exception to the rule. Iceberg lettuce only and shredded very thinly. I swear it tastes better this way!

Classic grinder salads have tomato and onion. I add cucumber because I love the crunch. You can totally personalize which veggies you want. I think the little sweet bell peppers would also be a wonderful addition.

My choice of cheese for this salad is provolone. I love that it stands up to the tanginess of the dressing. However, use what you have and what you love. And, as always, finish with extra parm at the end. You can never have enough!

I generally use a good quality deli ham and salami for the proteins. However, the dressing is so good I have tossed it with leftover steak, grilled chicken, shrimp, and smoked pork tenderloin. You cannot go wrong.

how to make the best grinder salad

Meal Prep and Mason Jars

One of my favorite things about this grinder salad is that it’s a fantastic option for meal prep and travel. I love to prep this salad on Sunday evenings and have it for lunch during the week. I keep everything separate and assemble just before eating. It’s too easy and delicious!

This salad is also the perfect option for an office/workplace mason jar lunch. The night before, simply layer all the ingredients in a glass container with a lid. I recommend putting the dressing at the bottom, followed by the meats and cheese, and then topped the lettuce and veggies. When you’re ready, simply shake everything together and chow down!

Grinder Salad Sandwich

I am usually watching my carb intake. Because the pants need to fit. Apparently. Allegedly. However, if this isn’t you, make a sandwich with this recipe. I dream of this sandwich. This sandwich will cure all that ails. It’s so so good.

On a great roll or Italian bread, layer the meats and cheese to your liking. Next, toss the veggies and dressing in a bowl. Spoon this glorious mixture onto your sandwich and enjoy. It’s the stuff dreams are made of!

Grinder Salad Recipe Essentials

In my opinion, a good quality knife set is a true kitchen essential. Invest in a quality set and they will last forever!

If we’re gonna make a grinder salad, we need a cutting board. I absolutely love this set. Dishwasher safe and you can choose the exact size you need for every recipe!

I also love a good mixing bowl set. These are awesome. Mix all of the things and, when you’re ready, throw on a lid and right into the fridge!

frequently asked questions

Other Salad Recipes

It’s no secret that I love a good salad. I love that you can mix and match and make them your very own. Here’s some of my favorite salads and dressings. Try them and let me know what you think!

• Easy Pasta Salad with a Parmesan Vinaigrette
• The Best Tuna Salad Recipe
• Creamy Dill Pickle Ranch
• Bacon Cheeseburger Bowls
• Greek Salmon Salad with Dill Feta Dressing

If you guys make this Grinder Salad, be sure to leave a comment and/or give this recipe a rating! I absolutely love to hear from you all and always do my best to respond to each and every one of your comments!

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Thank you!

I am so incredibly happy that you are here! I hope you try my Grinder Salad recipe and fall in love with it. If you make this recipe, please share and tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok! And, please leave a comment or review. I absolutely love seeing each and every one of your kitchen masterpieces. And, as always, if you ever have any questions about any of my recipes, please don’t hesitate to contact me!

Happy Cooking!

–Rufus

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