We all are aware of the viral grinder sandwich from TikTok that has made its way across our platforms this summer. That is why I had to put an HGHF spin on the sandwich and make it a deliciously easy salad. The dressing is inspired by the dressing that is how the lettuce on the traditional grinder. Then you just add in your favorite toppings that are typically found on the grinder. Simple, easy, filling and high in protein! You all are going to love making The Best Easy Grinder Salad as a regular dinner or lunch recipe.
Where did the Grinder Sandwich Originate From?
There is no indefinite origin of the “Grinder” however there are few myths that make a lot of sense but what we do know is it originated years ago, and we are so thankful for it!
Around World War II-
Invented by a shopkeeper in New London, named Benedetto Capaldo.– he was originally known as the grinder. Making over 500 sandwiches a day to feed his workers at the Navy’s submarine base. However, also thought it was Italian-American slang for dockworkers who were constantly sanding and grinding.
Sandwich Itself-
Let’s face it, this sandwich has all the goods, so that means all the layers! That is also where it is thought to get its name. Sub sandwiches that are made with Italian bread and so many layers, were thought harder to chew than you typical turkey and cheese. That is where the name “grinder” came into place because there was so many ingredients to get through you need to “grind” your teeth. Makes sense right?
No matter what myth, we are just so glad it is here to stay! Especially now is Easy Grinder Salad form!
What Easy Ingredients Do We Need For the Easy Grinder Salad?
One of the things I love about this salad is how easy the ingredients are put together as well as being able to add whatever you like or don’t add what you do not like 🙂 Also my secret to making this super easy is my secret weapon… Rotisserie Chicken. Yep! Makes this salad come together so much faster.
Ingredients:
- Romaine Lettuce
- Salami
- Rotisserie Chicken
- Tomatoes
- Avocado
- Red Onion
- Shredded Mild Cheddar Cheese
- Cucumber
- Pepperoncini Peppers
Easy Homemade Croutons:
- Baguette
- Olive Oil
- Garlic Salt
Easy Grinder Salad Dressing– So Deliciously Good!
The sauce for a typical grinder sandwich that is on the lettuce of the sandwich is a mayonnaise parmesan sauce. That is why I needed the dressing to be very similar but in salad dressing form. We sure nailed it!
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup greek yogurt
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan
- olive oil- 2 tbsp
- light olive oil- 2 tbsp
- white white vinegar- 2 tbsp
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- salt, pepper & cayenne pepper to taste
Directions:
- Add all ingredients to immersion blender safe container, immersion blend. Pour into sealed container & refrigerate until ready to serve.
You do want to use regular olive oil, but also light olive oil as well. If you use all regular olive oil it can be very strong olive oil taste in the dressing, which we don’t want to take away from the other flavors. Light olive oil can be bought at your local grocery store.
Other HGHF Salads You Must Make
Copy Cat Panera Modern Greek Salad
Healthy Fall Harvest Salad
Easy Blackened Salmon Caesar Salad
Katie’s Pizza Friend Artichoke Salad Copy Cat
Most Common Questions Asked When Making Easy Grinder Salad
Do you have to use Rotisserie chicken?
You do not have to use rotisserie chicken however it makes the recipe so much easier without having to poach any chicken ahead of time.
How long does the dressing keep in the refrigerator?
Keep dressing in air tight container for up to a week in the refrigerator.
Are there other meats to use besides the chicken & salami?
You sure can! Use whatever meats your heart desires. However, this combination is perfect for the salad or sandwich.
Can you make this salad vegetarian?
Sure thing! Add whatever other veggies you’d like and take out the chicken and salami.
Is this recipe gluten free?
This recipe is gluten free– without the croutons. However, you could always use gluten free bread.
The Best Easy Grinder Salad
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 2 heads of Romaine Lettuce
- 8 slices of Salami
- 2 cups of Rotisserie Chicken
- Cherry Tomatoes
- Avocados
- Red Onion
- Shredded Mild Cheddar Cheese
- Cucumber
- 1 jar of Pepperoncini Peppers
OPTIONAL Easy Homemade Croutons:
- 1 Baguette
- Drizzle Olive Oil to coat
- Garlic Salt to taste
Grinder Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup greek yogurt
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp light olive oil
- 2 tbsp white white vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- salt pepper & cayenne pepper to taste
Instructions
- Chop up the romaine lettuce. Add lettuce to the bowls, then add chopped cucumbers, avocado,tomatoes, pepperocini peppers, red onion, cheddar cheese, salami & rotisserie chicken. Add homemade croutons & drizzle with grinder dressing & devour!
Easy Homemade Croutons:
- Dice up baguette into small crouton pieces. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic salt & toss.. Place on a baking sheet at 350 until crispy & golden brown about 5 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them.
Grinder Dressing:
- Add all ingredients to immersion blender safe container, immersion blend. Pour into sealed container & refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
Not going to lie… this might be my fav meal salad.. def top 3 if not number 1. It was different than my usual go to meal salads but it was so dang good! I ate it for lunch all week too.. can’t get enough it. And also so fast which made for a perfect Monday night meal!
Ah I am so glad to hear Cassidy!!! yay!! Thanks so much for taking the time to leave a comment!