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Italian Grinder Bean Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 103 reviews

This Italian Grinder Bean Salad is a vibrant and hearty dish combining a medley of beans, deli meats, fresh vegetables, and cheese, all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing made with Greek yogurt and a hint of pepperoncini brine. Perfect as a protein-packed lunch or a flavorful side, this salad offers layers of textures and bold Italian-inspired flavors that meld beautifully when chilled.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Salad

  • 1 can (15 oz) garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup diced cooked turkey breast slices
  • 1 cup diced salami or cured sausage
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ cup sliced pepperoncini
  • ½ small red onion, finely diced
  • ½ cup parsley, roughly chopped
  • 1 cup diced provolone or mozzarella pearls

For the Creamy Grinder Dressing

  • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons pepperoncini brine
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, finely grated
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Sea salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt, extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, pepperoncini brine, Dijon mustard, finely grated garlic, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, and sea salt until smooth and creamy.
  2. Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the drained and rinsed garbanzo and white beans, diced turkey breast, diced salami, diced green bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced pepperoncini, finely diced red onion, chopped parsley, and diced provolone or mozzarella pearls. Gently toss all the ingredients together to combine evenly.
  3. Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared creamy grinder dressing over the mixed salad ingredients, then toss again thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
  4. Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes if time allows, allowing the flavors to meld together. Before serving, garnish with extra pepperoncini for added flavor and visual appeal.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, omit the turkey and salami and increase the amount of beans or add more cheese.
  • Using pepperoncini brine in the dressing adds a nice tang and depth of flavor, but you can adjust the amount to your taste preference.
  • Make ahead of time for best flavor; salad keeps well refrigerated up to 2 days.
  • Use fresh herbs like parsley to brighten the taste.
  • This salad can be served as a main dish or a side dish depending on portion size.

Keywords: Italian bean salad, creamy dressing, cold salad, deli meat salad, healthy lunch, protein-packed salad

Find it online: https://frommamamaya.com/italian-grinder-bean-salad-recipe/