As for the deli meats, you want to chop them into bite-sized pieces, ensuring an even distribution throughout the salad. Whether you’re using ham, turkey, salami, or any other favorite meat, make sure everything is diced uniformly for a cohesive bite.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together your dressing ingredients: extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. If you prefer a slightly creamier dressing, you can add a touch of Dijon mustard or mayonnaise. You can prepare the dressing up to two days in advance and store it in the fridge.
Step 3: Toss the Salad
Once all your salad ingredients are chopped, add them to a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the dressing over the top and gently toss to ensure everything is evenly coated. If you’re using the optional Italian roll as croutons, add the pieces just before serving to prevent them from getting soggy.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your sub in a tub immediately. This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. If you’re meal prepping, you can chop the salad ingredients a few hours in advance, but wait to toss them with the dressing until just before serving.
Customization Ideas for Your Sub in a Tub
The beauty of a sub in a tub lies in its flexibility. You can customize the salad to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas to get creative:
Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly
If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, simply omit the Italian roll entirely. You’ll still get a hearty, filling meal packed with protein and healthy fats from the cheese and meats.
Vegetarian Option
For a vegetarian twist, leave out the deli meats and substitute with marinated tofu, chickpeas, or hard-boiled eggs for a protein boost.
Dairy-Free Version
If you’re lactose intolerant or prefer a dairy-free diet, you can easily omit the cheese or swap it for a plant-based alternative.
Spice it Up
For those who love a little heat, consider adding jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the salad dressing. You could even experiment with spicy deli meats like chorizo or spicy salami.
Serving Suggestions for Sub in a Tub
While this sub in a tub recipe is perfect on its own, there are a few ways you can serve it to make it even more exciting:
- As a Sandwich: For those who prefer a more traditional sub experience, stuff the salad mixture into an Italian roll for a heartier, sandwich-style meal.
- For Meal Prep: This salad makes a fantastic option for meal prep. Simply keep the salad and dressing separate until you’re ready to eat, ensuring the salad stays crisp and fresh.
- For Entertaining: Hosting a casual lunch or get-together? Serve the sub in a tub as a salad bar where guests can choose their favorite ingredients and build their own customized salad.
If you’re craving the bold flavors of a classic sub but want to keep things light and healthy, this sub in a tub recipe is the way to go. Packed with fresh vegetables, savory deli meats, and a zesty homemade dressing, it’s a versatile meal that fits into nearly any dietary plan. Whether you’re cutting carbs, following a gluten-free lifestyle, or simply looking for a refreshing take on the traditional sandwich, this recipe is sure to become your new go-to. Enjoy it as a salad or stuff it into a roll—the choice is yours!
