Grinder Sliders Recipe

Name: Grinder Sliders
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1/3 cup Mayonnaise, such as Duke’s; 1 1/2 tablespoon Red Wine Vinegar; 2 teaspoons submarine dressing; 1 tablespoon dijon mustard; 1/4 cup red onion, sliced, then sliced in half; 1 tablespoon chopped drained pepperoncini; 1/2 teaspoon dried basil,; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste; 2 cups sliced iceberg lettuce; 1 (12 count) package Hawaiian rolls; Olive Oil, to taste; 4 slices black forest ham; 3 slices of prosciutto; 5 slices thin dry Italian salami, or as needed; 3 slices provolone cheese; 1/4 pound fresh mozzarella, torn; 3 slices margherita pepperoni, or as needed; 1 roma tomato, sliced; Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Grinder Salad Sliders

Original recipe (1X) yields 4 servings

Ingredients:

Grinder Salad:

1/3 cup mayonnaise (such as Duke's)
1 1/2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 teaspoons submarine dressing
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
1 tablespoon chopped drained pepperoncini
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste
2 cups sliced iceberg lettuce

Sliders:

1 (12 count) package Hawaiian rolls
1 tablespoon olive oil, or as needed
4 slices Black Forest ham
3 slices prosciutto
5 thin slices dry Italian salami, or as needed
3 slices provolone cheese
1/4 pound fresh mozzarella, torn
3 slices Margherita pepperoni, or as needed
1 Roma tomato, thinly sliced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Directions:

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350F (180C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, submarine dressing, and Dijon mustard until smooth.

Step 3: Add thinly sliced onions, chopped pepperoncini, dried basil, oregano, and black pepper to the bowl. Toss until well combined.

Step 4: Gently fold in the iceberg lettuce and toss again. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with more pepper or vinegar if needed. Set aside.

Step 5: Without separating the rolls, slice the entire pack of Hawaiian rolls horizontally with a serrated knife. Place both halves cut side up on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 6: Brush the top surface of the rolls with olive oil to ensure they toast evenly.

Step 7: Begin layering by placing Black Forest ham and prosciutto on the bottom half of the rolls. Then, arrange the salami and pepperoni on the top half of the rolls.

Step 8: Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 5 minutes to heat and slightly crisp them.

Step 9: After 5 minutes, remove from the oven. Lay a slice of provolone cheese on top of the prosciutto and sprinkle mozzarella over the pepperoni. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese has fully melted.

Step 10: Remove both halves from the oven and place them on a cutting board.

Step 11: Spoon the prepared salad evenly over the melted provolone. Add sliced Roma tomatoes on top of the salad.

Step 12: Carefully place the top half of the rolls over the layers. Slice into individual sliders.

Step 13: Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories: 649
Total Fat: 38g (48% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 12g (60% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 60mg (20% Daily Value)
Sodium: 1643mg (71% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate: 51g (19% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 5g (18% Daily Value)
Total Sugars: 6g
Protein: 28g (55% Daily Value)
Vitamin C: 10mg (11% Daily Value)
Calcium: 457mg (35% Daily Value)
Iron: 4mg (24% Daily Value)
Potassium: 456mg (10% Daily Value)

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Grinder Sliders Recipe

The History and Origins of Grinder Sliders

Grinder sliders trace their roots to the Northeastern United States, particularly in Italian-American communities. The term "grinder" originally referred to a type of sandwich made on a long roll, often packed with Italian cold cuts, cheese, and vegetables. It is believed that Italian immigrants brought this style of sandwich to America in the early 20th century, adapting traditional flavors to locally available ingredients. The slider version emerged as a modern, smaller adaptation, perfect for parties and casual dining, combining the hearty flavors of a grinder with the convenience of bite-sized portions.

Regional Characteristics

While grinders are most commonly associated with New England, especially Connecticut and Massachusetts, the slider adaptation has become popular nationwide. In the Northeast, grinders are often served on softer submarine rolls and feature a mix of Italian meats like salami, prosciutto, and pepperoni, with provolone or mozzarella cheese. Regional variations may include different types of pickled vegetables, specialty mustards, or the addition of local cheeses. The Hawaiian roll, used in many slider recipes today, adds a slightly sweet, pillowy texture that distinguishes them from traditional grinders.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Grinder sliders differ from classic sliders or mini sandwiches in several ways. Unlike typical hamburger sliders, which center around a meat patty and toppings, grinder sliders focus on Italian cold cuts layered with cheeses and a distinctive Italian salad. They are also smaller than traditional grinders, designed for easy sharing and party platters. The combination of warm, baked rolls and melted cheese layered with a fresh, tangy salad sets them apart from both regular sandwiches and other slider variations.

Typical Serving Occasions

Grinder sliders are often served at casual gatherings, game-day events, potlucks, and family parties. Their small size makes them ideal finger food, while the flavorful layering allows for a satisfying bite. Restaurants with Italian-American menus may serve them as appetizers or lunch specials, sometimes accompanied by a side of pickles or potato chips. They are also popular in catering menus where versatility and easy serving are key.

Interesting Facts

The word "grinder" is thought to come from the notion that chewing the sandwich felt like grinding it down, especially when eaten cold with crusty bread.
Hawaiian rolls became a popular choice for slider adaptations due to their soft texture, which contrasts with the salty, rich Italian meats.
Grinder sliders combine both hot and cold elementswarm baked rolls and melted cheeses paired with a fresh, tangy saladcreating a unique balance of textures and flavors.
They are sometimes confused with hoagies or subs, but the key difference is the slider format and the inclusion of a more elaborate Italian salad on top.
In some areas, grinder sliders are served with specialty dressings inspired by classic Italian vinaigrettes, further highlighting their ethnic roots.

FAQ about Grinder Sliders Recipe

Leftover Grinder Sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap the sliders in foil and bake at 350°F (180°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Yes, you can prepare the sliders up to the point of assembling and baking. Store the sandwich components (meats, cheeses, and rolls) separately and refrigerate. Assemble the sliders just before baking for the freshest result.

Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked sliders. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake according to the recipe instructions.

You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option, or use sour cream for a tangier flavor. Another alternative is avocado for a creamy texture and richer flavor.

While Hawaiian rolls are traditional for this recipe due to their slightly sweet flavor, you can substitute with any soft, small rolls such as slider buns or brioche rolls.

Yes, feel free to get creative! You can add ingredients like olives, pickles, bell peppers, or extra cheese for more flavor. Just make sure the ingredients don’t make the sliders too soggy.

Grinder Sliders are delicious on their own but pair well with a side of crispy fries, a fresh salad, or even a bowl of soup. For a lighter option, serve with a simple green salad or a side of roasted vegetables.

You can prepare the salad dressing and vegetables ahead of time, but it's best to assemble the salad just before serving to maintain the freshness of the lettuce.

Absolutely! You can customize the meats to your liking. Try using turkey, chicken, or roast beef as alternatives to ham, prosciutto, or salami. Just make sure the meat is sliced thinly for easy layering.

Comments

Steven Nguyen

08/09/2024 01:42:34 AM

Amazing taste!! I followed the recipe exactly and we absolutely enjoyed it. The combination of flavors and textures was fantastic, perfect for a party or a simple weeknight dinner. Definitely a recipe worth keeping - so delicious!

Cook Time: 120 minutes

Grinder Sliders Recipe