Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

Salad Base

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup sliced pepperoncini
• ½ cup cucumber, diced

Grinder-Style Additions

• 4 oz salami, chopped
• 4 oz turkey or ham, chopped
• 1 cup provolone or mozzarella cheese, cubed or shredded

Creamy Italian Dressing

• ⅓ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp oregano
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Extras

• Banana peppers
• Croutons
• Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dressing

• In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.

2. Combine the Salad

• In a large bowl, add beans, lettuce, tomatoes, onion, pepperoncini, cucumber, deli meats, and cheese.

3. Toss Everything Together

• Pour dressing over salad.
• Toss until evenly coated.

4. Chill (Optional)

• Refrigerate 15–30 minutes for flavors to blend.

5. Serve

• Top with Parmesan, basil, or croutons if desired.

Tips for Best Flavor

Dry the Beans Well

Too much moisture can water down the dressing.

Use Crisp Lettuce

Romaine gives the best crunch and holds dressing well.

Let It Marinate

The salad tastes even better after sitting briefly in the fridge.

Customize the Meats

Use pepperoni, capicola, mortadella, or roast beef.

Add Extra Tang

A splash of pepperoncini brine boosts flavor.

Variations

Vegetarian Version

Skip deli meats and add extra cheese or olives.

Low-Carb Option

Reduce beans and increase lettuce/meat.

Spicy Grinder Salad

Add hot cherry peppers or crushed red pepper flakes.

Pasta Grinder Salad

Mix in cooked rotini or bowtie pasta.

Serving Ideas

• Garlic bread
• Soup
• Sandwiches
• Pasta salad spread
• Meal-prep lunches

Storage

• Refrigerate up to 3 days
• Store lettuce separately for best texture if meal prepping
• Stir before serving again