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Italian Grinder Bean Salad Recipe

Italian Grinder Bean Salad Recipe

5 from 20 reviews

This Italian Grinder Bean Salad is a hearty and flavorful dish combining protein-rich beans, deli meats, fresh vegetables, and a zesty homemade dressing. Perfect as a robust side or a light main course, it brings together classic Italian flavors in a colorful, easy-to-make salad that can be served immediately or chilled to meld the tastes.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
  • 1 can white kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
  • 4 ounces sliced salami, turkey, and/or ham (cubed)
  • 2 ounces sliced provolone cheese (cubed)
  • 1 bell pepper (diced small)
  • 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes (quartered)
  • 1/2 red onion (diced small)
  • 1/2 cup pickled banana peppers (chopped small)
  • 3 Tbsp grated parmesan cheese

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 Tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1 Tbsp banana pepper brine from the jar
  • 1/2 Tbsp dijon mustard
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 3/4 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • Black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine the olive oil, mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, banana pepper brine, dijon mustard, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Whisk vigorously until the dressing is smooth and well combined. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
  2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the drained and rinsed chickpeas and white kidney beans, cubed salami and/or turkey and ham, cubed provolone cheese, diced bell pepper, quartered cherry or grape tomatoes, diced red onion, chopped pickled banana peppers, and grated parmesan cheese. Ensure all ingredients are fresh and evenly chopped for balanced bites.
  3. Combine Salad and Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly with the flavorful dressing. Check seasoning and adjust salt or pepper if necessary.
  4. Serve or Store: Serve the salad immediately for the freshest texture and taste, or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop more deeply. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian option, omit the sliced salami, turkey, and ham, or replace with vegetarian deli slices.
  • You can swap provolone with mozzarella or any mild cheese if preferred.
  • If you like it spicier, increase the crushed red pepper flakes.
  • Make sure to rinse and drain the canned beans thoroughly to reduce sodium and improve texture.
  • This salad can be made a few hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator to enhance flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian bean salad, grinder salad, Italian cold salad, bean and salami salad, easy Italian salad recipe