Introduction
Get ready to savor the irresistible flavors of a classic Italian sandwich, elevated with a scrumptious grinder salad. This delicious sandwich, with layers of savory meats and gooey cheese, is perfect for lunch, dinner, or any time you’re craving a hearty meal. The addition of a zesty grinder salad offers a refreshing crunch that complements the richness of the sandwich perfectly.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the sandwich:
– 1 loaf French bread (about 18 inches), halved lengthwise
– 2 tablespoons salted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan cheese
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– Pinch of salt
– 6 ounces thinly sliced ham
– 6 ounces thinly sliced pepperoni
– 6 ounces thinly sliced salami
– 8 slices provolone cheese
For the grinder salad:
– ½ cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
– ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
– ¼ cup sliced pepperoncini peppers
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
12 minutes
Total Time
27 minutes
Yield
Serves 4-6
Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures in this Italian sandwich, whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or as a delightful lunch the next day!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the bread:
– Preheat the oven to 375°F.
– In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt.
– Spread the butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of both halves of the French bread.
Assemble the sandwich:
– On the bottom half of the bread, layer the ham, pepperoni, and salami evenly.
– Place the provolone cheese slices over the meats.
– Cover with the top half of the bread.
Bake the sandwich:
– Place the assembled sandwich on a baking sheet.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
Prepare the grinder salad:
– While the sandwich is baking, in a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
– Add the shredded lettuce, sliced red onion, and sliced pepperoncini peppers to the bowl.
– Toss until the vegetables are well coated with the dressing.
Assemble the final sandwich:
– Once the sandwich is baked, remove it from the oven and carefully open the top half.
– Spread the prepared grinder salad evenly over the melted cheese and meats.
– Replace the top half of the bread.
Serve:
– Slice the sandwich into desired portions and serve immediately.
Notes
Ingredient temperature:
– Ensure the butter is softened for easy spreading.
Layering technique:
– Layer meats in an even manner for balanced flavors in every bite.
Baking time:
– Keep an eye on the sandwich while baking to achieve the perfect toastiness.
Vegetable freshness:
– Use fresh ingredients for the grinder salad for the best flavor and crunch.
Cook techniques
Preheating the Oven
Before baking, always preheat your oven to the specified temperature. This ensures even cooking and proper melting of cheese.
Making the Butter Mixture
Combine softened butter with grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and salt for a flavorful spread. Use a small bowl to mix until smooth before applying it to the bread.
Layering Ingredients
When assembling the sandwich, layer the meats and cheese evenly for balanced flavor in every bite. Start with the ham, followed by pepperoni, salami, and finish with provolone cheese.
Baking the Sandwich
Place the assembled sandwich on a baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake until the bread is golden and the cheese is bubbly, typically 10-12 minutes.
Whisking the Dressing
For the grinder salad, combine mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth before adding in the vegetables.
Preparing the Salad
Add shredded lettuce, thinly sliced red onion, and pepperoncini peppers to the dressing mixture. Toss gently to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated.
Final Assembly
After baking the sandwich, carefully open the top half and spread the grinder salad over the cheese and meats. This adds freshness and texture to your sandwich.
Slicing and Serving
Use a sharp knife to slice the sandwich into portions after assembling. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
FAQ
Can I use other types of bread?
Yes, you can substitute French bread with other types like ciabatta or hoagie rolls, but the flavor and texture may vary.
What can I substitute for provolone cheese?
You can use mozzarella, cheddar, or any cheese that melts well as a substitute for provolone cheese.
Is it possible to prepare the grinder salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just mix it in right before serving for the best texture.
Can I add other ingredients to the sandwich?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other meats, cheeses, or toppings like tomatoes or peppers according to your preference.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover sandwich in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for best results before serving.
Conclusion
This delicious sandwich, featuring layers of savory meats and melted provolone cheese, is beautifully complemented by the fresh and tangy grinder salad. The combination of flavors and textures makes it an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed alone or shared with friends, this sandwich is sure to be a hit.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetarian Version
Swap the meats for grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant. Add roasted red peppers and a generous amount of mozzarella cheese for a delightful vegetarian sandwich.
Spicy Italian Delight
Incorporate spicy capicola or add jalapeños to the meat layer for an extra kick. Pair it with pepper jack cheese instead of provolone to enhance the spiciness.
Breakfast Sandwich
Transform the recipe into a hearty breakfast by using scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage. Top with cheddar cheese and add slices of avocado for a creamy texture.
BBQ Chicken Grinder
Replace the deli meats with pulled BBQ chicken and cheddar cheese. Add coleslaw in the grinder salad for a sweet and tangy crunch.
Greek-inspired Sandwich
Utilize grilled chicken, feta cheese, and tzatziki sauce instead of the traditional ingredients. Add cucumbers and tomatoes to the grinder salad for a refreshing twist.
