Grinder Bean Salad Recipe

Recipe

Ingredients

Dressing:

• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 1/2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
• 1 large garlic clove, minced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Salad:

• 1 (15.5-ounce) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15.5-ounce) can garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup mozzarella pearls
• 2/3 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1/3 cup chopped red onion
• 1/3 cup chopped pepperoncini
• 1/3 cup thinly sliced salami
• 1/3 cup thinly sliced hot capicola (optional)
• 1/3 cup thinly sliced fresh basil

Directions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, garlic, salt, and pepper. Set the dressing aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cannellini beans, garbanzo beans, mozzarella pearls, red bell pepper, red onion, pepperoncini, salami, capicola (if using), and fresh basil.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
4. For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for a while before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	534
Total Fat	27g
Saturated Fat	7g
Cholesterol	34mg
Sodium	1206mg
Total Carbohydrates	51g
Dietary Fiber	13g
Total Sugars	7g
Protein	25g
Vitamin C	41mg
Calcium	256mg
Iron	7mg
Potassium	912mg

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

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

Author: Pat Bernitt

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Yield: 5 servings

History and Origin

The Grinder Bean Salad takes inspiration from the beloved Italian grinder sandwiches, often enjoyed in regions such as the Northeast United States, where Italian-American cuisine thrives. The sandwich typically consists of layers of cold cuts, cheeses, and vegetables on an Italian roll. This salad offers a deconstructed version of that concept, retaining the core flavors while ditching the bread for a lighter, yet equally satisfying dish. With its rich, vibrant flavors, this salad evokes the fresh tastes of a traditional Italian deli, bringing the essence of Italy right to your table.

Regional Features

While the Grinder Bean Salad is rooted in Italian-American cooking traditions, its versatility allows for adaptations based on regional availability. In the northeastern U.S., where Italian sandwiches are a staple, the salad might feature ingredients like capicola or pepperoncini, which are common in local deli offerings. In other regions, such as the Mediterranean, a more rustic version of the dish could include olives, sundried tomatoes, or feta cheese, adapting the salad to local tastes. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility, as it can easily be tailored to suit a variety of regional palates.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Unlike a classic Italian antipasto salad, which often includes cured meats, olives, and cheese, the Grinder Bean Salad stands out due to its use of hearty beans like cannellini and garbanzo, making it more filling and packed with protein. Additionally, while many bean salads rely on basic vinaigrettes, this recipe's dressing incorporates a zesty combination of red wine vinegar, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning, giving the dish a tangy, herbaceous kick. The inclusion of mozzarella pearls, salami, and optional capicola further enhances its distinctive character, setting it apart from more conventional bean salads.

Where is it Usually Served?

The Grinder Bean Salad is a versatile dish, perfect for serving at casual gatherings like barbecues, potlucks, and picnics. It also makes an excellent side dish for grilled meats or a light lunch on its own. Given its refreshing, flavorful profile, it's a popular choice during the warmer months, especially when served chilled. However, the salad is also hearty enough to be enjoyed as a winter appetizer or a filling addition to a Mediterranean-inspired spread.

Interesting Facts

One interesting fact about this salad is that it improves in flavor the longer it sits in the fridge. This allows the ingredients to marinate and meld together, making it even more delicious the next day. The Grinder Bean Salad is also highly customizablewhether you prefer more pepperoncini for a spicy kick or extra mozzarella for creaminess, you can adjust the recipe to suit your preferences. It's a great dish for those who enjoy experimenting with flavors and textures while still maintaining a traditional Italian essence.

This recipe is a great example of how Italian-American cuisine has evolved over the years, creating dishes that are easy to prepare yet bursting with flavor. Whether you're making it for a family dinner or bringing it to your next social gathering, the Grinder Bean Salad is sure to be a hit!

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