Chopped Grinder Sliders Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

• 1 (12 count) package Hawaiian rolls
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 4 ounces thinly sliced deli ham
• 2 ounces salami
• 2 ounces pepperoni
• 4 ounces provolone cheese
• 6 to 8 leaves romaine lettuce
• 1 small tomato, sliced
• 4 slices red onion
• 1/4 cup banana peppers, plus 2 teaspoons brine
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 1/2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375F (190C). Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, making sure they remain attached at the bottom.

Step 2: In a microwave-safe bowl or measuring cup, place butter and minced garlic. Microwave for 30-45 seconds or until the butter is fully melted.

Step 3: Brush the garlic butter over the tops of the rolls and the cut side of the bottom half. Place the rolls on a baking sheet with the buttered side facing up.

Step 4: Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 6-7 minutes or until lightly toasted.

Step 5: While the rolls are toasting, prepare the filling. On a cutting board, layer the ham, salami, pepperoni, provolone cheese, romaine lettuce, tomato slices, red onion, and banana peppers.

Step 6: Chop all the ingredients together until they are well combined.

Step 7: Add the banana pepper brine, olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and mayonnaise. Continue chopping and mixing the ingredients until everything is evenly coated.

Step 8: Spread the mixture evenly over the bottom half of the toasted rolls. Place the top half of the rolls on top.

Step 9: Carefully cut the entire sandwich into 12 slider-sized portions.

Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Hawaiian roll sliders!

Nutrition Facts

Each serving (1 slider) contains:

• Calories: 252
• Total Fat: 17g (22% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 6g (31% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 31mg (10% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 611mg (27% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 16g (6% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 2g (6% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 9g (18% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 4mg (4% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 133mg (10% Daily Value)
• Iron: 1mg (8% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 186mg (4% 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.

The Story Behind Chopped Grinder Sliders

Chopped Grinder Sliders are a modern twist on the classic Italian-American sandwich known as the grinder or sub. The term grinder originally emerged in New England in the early 20th century, referring to a long, crusty sandwich filled with Italian cold cuts and cheeses. These sliders transform the traditional foot-long sandwich into small, bite-sized portions, making them perfect for parties or casual gatherings. The combination of chopped meats, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing reflects the influence of Italian deli culture in the United States.

Regional Variations and Specialties

While grinders are popular across the U.S., the slider version has a particularly strong following in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states. Some regions favor adding pickled peppers or banana peppers for a tangy punch, while others might include provolone or mozzarella cheese exclusively. Hawaiian rolls, often used for the slider format, add a slightly sweet contrast to the savory fillings, creating a unique flavor profile that distinguishes them from standard grinders. This regional adaptation highlights how American sandwiches continually evolve by blending local ingredients and preferences.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

Chopped Grinder Sliders differ from traditional subs or hoagies primarily in size and preparation. Instead of long, handheld sandwiches, ingredients are finely chopped and mixed together, allowing each bite to carry the full spectrum of flavors. Unlike meatball sliders or mini burgers, grinders emphasize cured Italian meats and tangy dressings, often with a fresh vegetable medley. The use of Hawaiian rolls and garlic butter adds an extra layer of richness, making the sliders both tender and flavorful, while still being easy to serve and eat in one or two bites.

Where They Are Typically Served

These sliders are commonly featured at casual gatherings, game-day events, and holiday parties. Their small size makes them ideal for buffet-style serving or as an appetizer before a main meal. Cafs, delis, and catering services in the Northeastern U.S. often include chopped grinder sliders on their menus due to their popularity as finger food. Additionally, food trucks and pop-up eateries sometimes experiment with variations, adding unique cheeses, spicy peppers, or even roasted vegetables to cater to diverse tastes.

Interesting Facts About Chopped Grinder Sliders

• The term grinder is said to come from the feeling of grinding ones teeth on the hard Italian bread used in early versions of the sandwich.
• Chopping all the ingredients together creates a flavor harmony that differs from layered sandwiches, as every bite includes a bit of meat, cheese, and vegetables.
• Hawaiian rolls, first introduced in the mid-20th century, became a popular choice for sliders because their slight sweetness balances the savory and tangy components of the grinder.
• Despite being a modern twist, the concept of a mini sub has roots in Italian-American social gatherings, where small, shareable sandwiches were favored for communal meals.
• Many home cooks enjoy experimenting with dressings, from classic Italian vinaigrette to creamy mayonnaise blends, to adjust the flavor intensity according to personal preference.

FAQ about Chopped Grinder Sliders Recipe

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