Ciabatta Grinder Salad Sandwich (Print version)

A warm ciabatta grinder salad sandwich with melted provolone, deli meats, tomato, and a creamy pepperoncini lettuce salad.

# Ingredients:

For the sandwich

01 - 2 large ciabatta rolls, split in half
02 - 6 slices provolone cheese, about 5 oz (140 g)
03 - 4 oz (115 g) thin-sliced deli turkey
04 - 4 oz (115 g) thin-sliced deli ham
05 - 3 oz (85 g) thin-sliced soppressata or Genoa salami
06 - 1 oz (30 g) sliced pepperoni
07 - 1 medium tomato, thinly sliced
08 - 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
09 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
10 - Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

For the grinder salad

11 - 1/2 cup (115 g) mayonnaise
12 - 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar, plus more to taste
13 - 1 small garlic clove, finely grated
14 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
15 - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
16 - 3 cups (210 g) finely shredded iceberg lettuce
17 - 1/3 cup (40 g) thinly sliced red onion
18 - 1/3 cup (55 g) sliced pepperoncini peppers, drained

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
02 - Place the split ciabatta rolls cut side up on the baking sheet. Cover the cut sides with provolone and bake for 6-8 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the bread edges are crisp.
03 - Layer turkey, ham, soppressata, and pepperoni over the cheesy bread. Return to the oven for 8-10 minutes, until the meats are hot and the pepperoni edges start to curl.
04 - Whisk mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes, a pinch of salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl until smooth.
05 - Add iceberg lettuce, red onion, and pepperoncini to the dressing. Toss just until coated. Taste and add a few drops more vinegar only if it needs more tang.
06 - Drizzle the hot sandwich halves lightly with olive oil. Add tomato slices, a mound of grinder salad, and Parmesan. Close the sandwiches, cut each in half, and serve right away.

# Good to know:

01 - Best served immediately while the bread is crisp and the salad is cold.
02 - Makes 2 large sandwiches, usually 4 filling servings.
03 - Use any mix of deli meats totaling about 12 ounces.