Italian Grinder Salad Lettuce Cups
A fresh, zesty twist on the classic Italian grinder, served in crisp lettuce cups for a lighter, crunchier bite.
Total: 15 minPrep: 15 minCook: 0 min4 servingsDifficulty: Easy⭐ 4.7 (123+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 1 head romaine lettuce, leaves separated and washed
- 8 oz deli turkey breast, thinly sliced
- 8 oz deli ham, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup pepperoncini slices
- 1/4 cup Italian vinaigrette dressing
Steps
- 1 Prepare the lettuce cups by separating the romaine leaves and drying them thoroughly.
- 2 Layer each lettuce cup with turkey and ham slices.
- 3 Top with mozzarella cheese, olives, bell peppers, red onion, and pepperoncini slices.
- 4 Drizzle with Italian vinaigrette dressing before serving.
Equipment
- Large serving platter
- Sharp knife
Variations
- Add avocado slices for creaminess.
- Use provolone cheese for a sharper flavor.
Substitutions
- Substitute turkey and ham with vegetarian deli slices for a vegan option.
- Use balsamic vinaigrette if Italian isn't available.
Pairings
- Italian breadsticks
- Marinated olives
Nutrition
Calories:
250 kcal
Fat:
8g fat
Carbs:
10g carbohydrates
Protein:
25g protein
Fiber:
3g fiber
Sugar:
2g sugar
Sodium:
700mg sodium
Tips
- For a heartier version, add some chickpeas or grilled chicken.
- Customize with your favorite deli meats and veggies.
Storage
Store assembled lettuce cups in the fridge for up to 2 hours. Dress just before serving to keep lettuce crisp.
Freezing: Does not freeze well due to the deli meats and lettuce.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of warm, crusty bread.
- Pair with a refreshing Italian soda.
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but assemble just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp.
What can I use instead of Italian vinaigrette?
Balsamic vinaigrette works well as a substitute.