Creating this grinder salad is a simple, rewarding process, reminiscent of the afternoons spent with Mama Lou in her sunlit kitchen. Here’s how you can make it at home:

1. **Prepare the Greens**: Start by rinsing the lettuce under cold water. Pat dry with a clean kitchen towel and tear into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large salad bowl.

2. **Chop the Vegetables**: Dice the tomatoes, slice the cucumbers, and thinly slice the red onions. Add these to the bowl with the lettuce, allowing the colors to mix beautifully.

3. **Add the Meats and Cheese**: Slice your choice of deli meats into strips and cube the provolone cheese. Scatter them over the salad, letting the flavors mingle.

4. **Mix in the Olives and Herbs**: Add the halved olives and sprinkle the chopped herbs over the top, infusing the salad with a burst of freshness.

5. **Prepare the Dressing**: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. **Toss the Salad**: Drizzle the dressing over the salad, then gently toss to ensure every ingredient is coated. Serve immediately, and enjoy the symphony of flavors.