Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Salad:

  • 1 head iceberg lettuce, shredded (about 4 cups)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup banana peppers, sliced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 4 oz salami, chopped
  • 4 oz ham, chopped
  • 4 oz provolone cheese, diced
  • 1/4 cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced (optional, for extra kick)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

For the Creamy Mayo-Mustard Dressing:

  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
    • Shred the iceberg lettuce and place it in a large mixing bowl.
    • Halve the cherry tomatoes, thinly slice the red onion, and slice the banana peppers (and pepperoncini, if using).
    • Chop the salami, ham, and provolone into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Make the Dressing:
    • In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
    • Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking to emulsify the dressing. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  3. Assemble the Salad:
    • Add the cherry tomatoes, banana peppers, red onion, salami, ham, and provolone to the bowl with the shredded lettuce.
    • Pour the creamy mayo-mustard dressing over the salad ingredients.
    • Toss everything together until evenly coated with the dressing.
  4. Serve:
    • Divide the salad into four bowls or serve family-style on a large platter.
    • Garnish with chopped parsley and extra pepperoncini, if desired.
    • Serve immediately for maximum crunch, or chill for 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Tips

  • Make it Low-Carb: This salad is naturally low-carb, making it a great alternative to the traditional grinder sandwich.
  • Customize: Swap provolone for mozzarella or add olives for a Mediterranean twist.
  • Storage: Store undressed salad components in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep dressing separate to maintain lettuce crispness.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Protein: 18g
  • Fat: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 2g

Enjoy this vibrant, TikTok-inspired Chopped Italian Grinder Salad as a fresh take on a viral favorite!