Delicious Italian Grinder Sandwich In Just 4 Steps

When you crave a sandwich that’s packed with flavor and texture, look no further than the Italian grinder sandwich. This isn’t just a sub; it’s a meticulously crafted meal that balances savory deli meats, sharp provolone cheese, and a unique, tangy shredded salad topping. This recipe delivers a satisfying and authentic experience in just 15 minutes, making the Italian grinder sandwich a perfect choice for lunch or a casual dinner.

What is an Italian Grinder Sandwich?

An Italian grinder sandwich is a type of submarine sandwich known for its distinctive layered filling. The “grinder” name is believed to come from the idea that the sandwich is so hearty it takes effort to “grind” through it. The sandwich starts with a long loaf of bread filled with classic Italian deli meats and provolone cheese. What sets it apart is the fresh, finely shredded salad topping, which is tossed in a zesty vinaigrette and piled high on top of the warm, cheesy base. This salad provides a crunchy, cool contrast to the warm, melted ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Sandwich

• 1 long Italian loaf or sub roll, halved lengthwise
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4-6 slices salami
• 4-6 slices pepperoni
• 4-6 slices provolone cheese
• 2-3 slices prosciutto (optional)

For the Grinder Salad Topping

• 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
• 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup finely chopped pepperoncini
• 1/4 cup finely chopped tomatoes
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

How to Make an Italian Grinder Sandwich

1. Toast the Bread: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the inside of the halved Italian loaf with olive oil. Place the bread on a baking sheet and toast for 5 minutes, or until it’s light golden and crunchy.
2. Assemble and Melt: Once the bread is toasted, layer the salami, pepperoni, and prosciutto (if using) on the bottom half of the loaf. Top the meats with the provolone cheese. Place the baking sheet back in the oven and bake for another 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
3. Prepare the Grinder Topping: While the cheese is melting, make the salad. In a medium bowl, combine the shredded lettuce, chopped red onion, pepperoncini, and tomatoes. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the lettuce mixture and toss to coat.
4. Finish and Serve: Carefully remove the toasted sandwich from the oven. Spoon the prepared grinder salad generously over the melted cheese and meats. Place the top half of the bread on the sandwich and gently press down. Slice into individual portions and serve this fantastic Italian grinder sandwich immediately.

Tips for the Ultimate Italian Grinder Sandwich

• Get a Good Loaf: A fresh, crusty Italian loaf is essential. It should be sturdy enough to hold all the fillings without becoming soggy.
• Prep the Salad Last: To maintain the crispness of the lettuce, prepare the “grinder” topping just before assembling the sandwich.
• Don’t Skip the Toasted Bread: Toasting the bread gives the sandwich a crucial structural integrity and a delicious crunch that contrasts with the fresh, soft salad.

Conclusion

This Italian grinder sandwich is more than just a quick meal; it’s a complete culinary experience in one bite. The layers of savory, gooey, and fresh ingredients make it a satisfying and memorable dish that you’ll want to make again and again.

Delicious Italian Grinder Sandwich: A 4 Steps Recipe

foodifa

A delicious and authentic recipe for an Italian grinder sandwich with a classic combination of meats, cheese, and a unique, zesty shredded salad topping.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Lunch

Cuisine Italian-American

Servings 4

Calories 650 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Sandwich

• 1 long Italian loaf or sub roll halved lengthwise
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4-6 slices salami
• 4-6 slices pepperoni
• 4-6 slices provolone cheese
• 2-3 slices prosciutto optional

For the Grinder Salad Topping

• 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
• 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup finely chopped pepperoncini
• 1/4 cup finely chopped tomatoes
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• Toast the Bread: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the inside of the halved Italian loaf with olive oil. Place the bread on a baking sheet and toast for 5 minutes, or until it’s light golden and crunchy.
• Assemble and Melt: Once the bread is toasted, layer the salami, pepperoni, and prosciutto (if using) on the bottom half of the loaf. Top the meats with the provolone cheese. Place the baking sheet back in the oven and bake for another 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Prepare the Grinder Topping: While the cheese is melting, make the salad. In a medium bowl, combine the shredded lettuce, chopped red onion, pepperoncini, and tomatoes. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the lettuce mixture and toss to coat.
• Finish and Serve: Carefully remove the toasted sandwich from the oven. Spoon the prepared grinder salad generously over the melted cheese and meats. Place the top half of the bread on the sandwich and gently press down. Slice into individual portions and serve this fantastic Italian grinder sandwich immediately.

Notes

This sandwich is best served immediately to prevent the bread from getting soggy from the salad topping.

Keyword deli sandwich, grinder recipe, Italian grinder sandwich, Italian sub