Italian Grinder Salad (Tiktok viral recipe)
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This Italian Grinder Salad has taken the Tik Tok world by storm, and it’s easy to see why it’s gone absolutely VIRAL on social media! Taking the heart and soul of your favorite sandwich ingredients and transforming it into a refreshing salad is pure genius. Crunchy lettuce teams up with a delicious creamy dressing, cheese, and those classic Italian flavors we all adore.
This viral recipe is a game changer – with its yummy blend of textures and a healthier twist, courtesy of Greek yogurt in the dressing. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and discover the sensation everyone’s been raving about!
Love healthy salad recipes? Try this arugula and apple salad or high protein pasta salad next.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Recipe Ingredients
You’ll need the following ingredients to make this Tiktok Grinder Salad Recipe:
Ingredient Notes
Mayonnaise: I use Hellman’s regular mayo since we are mixing it with Greek yogurt – but you could also use light to cut the calories/fat even further. You can also sub for sour cream.
Plain Greek Yogurt: I use non-fat plain Greek yogurt. My favorites are Chobani or Fage. If you prefer, you can sub the Greek yogurt for mayo – just keep in mind that this will effect the overall nutrition and calorie count.
Deli Ham & Salami: You can use any deli meat that you like. This is really yummy with turkey as well. I always look for nitrate-free deli meat.
Provolone Cheese: I use shredded provolone but you can also use deli provolone and slice into bit sized pieces. You can also use a different cheese such as colby jack, cheddar cheese, swiss cheese, or parmesan cheese.
Banana Peppers: You can swap for pepperoncini peppers, jalapenos (for more heat), or bell peppers for a crunch without the heat.
How to make Italian Grinder Salad: Step by Step
Step 1: In a medium bowl combine all of the dressing ingredients. Whisk until smooth and set aside.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine all of the salad ingredients.
Step 3: Drizzle the dressing over the lettuce mixture and toss gently to mix.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
If you find your dressing too thick, you can thin it out with a little water or olive oil for a smoother pour.
To ensure even distribution of flavors and easier eating, try to chop or slice the veggies uniformly.
It is best to serve this salad immediaty to avoid the ingredeints getting too soggy. If you want to make it ahead of time you can store the salad and dressing ingredients seperately.
Recipe Shortcuts
Use Pre-Packaged Lettuce: Instead of chopping your own lettuce, buy pre-packaged shredded lettuce or salad mixes. They are usually washed and ready to use.
Use Pre-Sliced Veggies: Some grocery stores offer pre-sliced or diced veggies. Consider using pre-sliced red onions, tomatoes, or peppers.
Deli Counter Assistance: When purchasing your deli meats, ask the counter attendant to slice them thicker (if not already pre-packaged) so you can easily dice them at home.
Bottled Dressing: In a pinch, you can use store-bought Italian dressing.
Meal Prep and Storage
Meal Prep: Prepare and chop all ingredients in advance, keeping them separate; make the dressing beforehand and have it ready to go for quick assembly when it’s meal time.
Storage: For maximum freshness, store the salad components and dressing in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator, assembling only right before you’re ready to eat to keep everything crisp.
If the salad is already mixed with the dressing, place it in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. Consume within a day for best texture and flavor.
What to serve with an Italian Grinder Salad
While this hearty salad is great on its own, but you many want to add a side dish to round out your meal. Here are some ideas:
Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery, and crusy bread, it’s almost a must-have with anything Italian-inspired.
Soup: You can’t go wrong with soup and salad! I would reccomend a minestone or pasta fagoli with this recipe.
Stuffed Peppers: These ground chicken stuff peppers would pair perfectly with this delicious salad and make your meal feel heartier.
Antipasti Platter: Picture some marinated olives, a few artichokes, and a selection of cheeses and Italian meats. It’s like a mini Italian feast!
Chips: A classic choice. Whether you go for some lightly salted potato chips or even pita chips, they add a great crunch.
Recipe Variations
Italian Grinder Sandwich: Turn the Italian Grinder Salad into a hearty sandwich by layering the salad between a fresh hoagie roll or Italian bread.
Additional Veggies: Incorporate cucumbers, bell peppers, or roasted red peppers for added crunch and flavor.
Lettuce Variations: Swap iceberg lettuce with romaine lettuce, spinach, or arugula for a different texture and nutritional profile.
Frequently Asked Question’s
The term “grinder” is especially common in New England and denotes what might be called a “sub” or “hoagie” in other parts of the U.S. It is made with a crispy roll filled with Italian cold cuts, cheese, veggies, and often dressed with oil, vinegar, and herbs.
Absolutely! You can skip the meats or replace them with vegetarian alternatives like grilled eggplant, zucchini, or portobello mushrooms
Of course! Romaine, arugula, or mixed greens can work as great substitutes.
It’s best to store undressed salad in an airtight container in the fridge. If it’s already dressed, try to consume it within a day as it might get soggy.
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Grinder Salad Recipe
Ingredients
Grinder Salad Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Salad Ingredients
- 1/2 head iceburg lettuce chopped
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes sliced
- 1/3 cup red onion chopped
- 1/2 cup banana peppers chopped
- 6 slices deli dam chopped
- 6 slices deli salami chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese
Instructions
- In a small bowl combine all of the dressing ingredients. Whisk until smooth and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine all of the salad ingredients.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to mix.