Can I use a different type of bean?

Absolutely! Chickpeas make a great substitute with their nutty flavor and firmer texture. Navy beans or even kidney beans would work too, though they'll change the character of the dish slightly. The key is to use beans that hold their shape when tossed.

Is there a mayo-free option for the dressing?

Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangy, protein-rich alternative. For a completely different approach, a simple olive oil and lemon juice dressing works beautifully too. Just add a little Dijon mustard to help emulsify it.

How can I make this salad more substantial for a dinner party?

This salad is already quite hearty, but you can make it even more substantial by adding cooked and cooled pasta (like rotini or farfalle), grilled chicken strips, or even some cooked and chilled shrimp. Hard-boiled eggs would also be a wonderful addition.

My family doesn't like spicy food. What can I use instead of pepperoncini?

If you're avoiding heat, substitute the pepperoncini with mild banana peppers or roasted red bell peppers. They'll add a similar tangy flavor and visual appeal without the spice. Even a handful of mild pickles, chopped, would work well for that briny element.

White Bean Grinder Salad Recipe

Description

This White Bean Grinder Salad is a hearty, Italian-inspired salad packed with protein from white beans, savory salami, crisp lettuce, creamy provolone, tangy pepperoncini, and a zesty homemade Italian dressing. Perfect for a satisfying main course or a flavorful side, it’s quick to assemble and sure to please a crowd.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Dressing

1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tsp Italian seasoning

Salad

1 can white beans (15 oz), drained and rinsed
1/2 head iceberg lettuce, shredded
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
1/3 cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced
6 oz genoa salami, chopped
6 oz provolone cheese, chopped
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

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Instructions

Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or cup, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, and Italian seasoning until smooth. Set aside.
Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the white beans, shredded iceberg lettuce, thinly sliced red onion, quartered cherry tomatoes, sliced pepperoncini peppers, chopped genoa salami, chopped provolone cheese, and grated parmesan cheese.
Add the Dressing: Pour the prepared mayonnaise dressing over the salad ingredients in the bowl.
Toss to Combine: Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated in the dressing.
Serve: Serve immediately for the freshest texture or chill in the refrigerator and serve cold for a refreshing salad.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for some or all of the mayonnaise.
This salad can be made in advance and kept chilled for up to 24 hours.
Customize the protein by using turkey, ham, or a vegetarian substitute if desired.
Adjust the amount of pepperoncini to your spice preference.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/6th of recipe
Calories: 370
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 970mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 17g
Cholesterol: 49mg