Italian Sub Salad, Two Ways

If you’re looking for a refreshing and satisfying meal that’s perfect for those warm summer days, then you’ve stumbled upon a gem! This Italian Sub Salad, Two Ways is not only a delightful twist on the classic sub sandwich but also a fantastic way to enjoy all those delicious flavors without the bread. It’s a go-to recipe in my house for busy weeknights or family gatherings, and I promise it will be a hit with everyone!

What I love most about this salad is its versatility. You can prepare it ahead of time, making it ideal for meal prep or potlucks. Plus, whether you’re catering to low-carb friends or those who crave a bit more heft with pasta, this salad has got you covered!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in no time at all—perfect for busy weeknights!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it the night before and let the flavors meld for an even tastier dish.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the blend of fresh ingredients and hearty toppings.
• Customizable: Whether you prefer it low carb or with pasta, this salad adapts to your needs.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of meats, cheeses, and zesty dressing makes every bite delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients that bring this Italian Sub Salad to life! You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store, so let’s dive in!

For The Salad

• 2 Hearts of Romaine, Shredded
• 1/2 lb of turkey slices, Sliced, Cut into Squares
• 1/2 lb of Provolone, Sliced, Cut into Squares
• 8oz Package of Marinated Mini Fresh Mozzarella Balls
• 1 Cucumber, Sliced Thin
• 1 Red Pepper, Sliced into Strips
• 1 C of Mild Pepper Rings
• 1 White Onion, Sliced into Strips
• 1 T Black Pepper
• 1 T Dried Basil
• 1 C of Parmesan, Cubed
• 1/2 lb turkey pepperoni, Diced

For The Dressing

• 1 C Apple Vinegar
• 1/2 C Olive Oil
• 1 T Garlic Powder
• 1 T Dried Basil
• 1 T Brown Sugar (or a natural sweetener)
• 2 t Kosher Salt

You can also make this salad for carb lovers by adding one cooked and cooled bag of tri-colored tortellini right before serving. I often prepare it both ways for my friends—just split the ingredients in half!

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using grilled chicken or slices of roast beef instead of turkey for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or avocados for extra freshness and texture.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or mozzarella for varied taste.
• Include grains: For a heartier version, add cooked quinoa or farro to boost fiber and nutrients.

How to Make Italian Sub Salad, Two Ways

Step 1: Prepare the Base

In a large bowl, add your shredded romaine lettuce as the base. Layer on the sliced red pepper, cucumbers, turkey slices, provolone squares, marinated mozzarella balls, onion strips, mild pepper rings, and diced turkey pepperoni. Arranging these ingredients beautifully not only makes it visually appealing but also allows everyone to enjoy their favorite parts when served.

Step 2: Season It Right

Once you’ve arranged the salad layers, sprinkle lightly with black pepper and dried basil. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (or overnight). This step is crucial as it allows all those amazing flavors to mingle together.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Dressing

While that delicious salad chills in the fridge, take some time to whisk together all your dressing ingredients: apple vinegar, olive oil, garlic powder, dried basil, brown sugar (or sweetener), and kosher salt. Letting this sit overnight also enhances its flavor—trust me; you’ll want that burst of taste!

Step 4: Serve It Up!

When you’re ready to serve your Italian Sub Salad, you can either toss everything together with the dressing or serve it on the side for everyone to customize their portions. Enjoy every vibrant bite—it’s sure to become a favorite at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Italian Sub Salad, Two Ways

Creating a delightful Italian Sub Salad is easy with a few handy tips to ensure you get the best flavors and textures. Here are some suggestions to help you along the way:

• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Chopping and preparing your ingredients in advance saves time and allows the flavors to meld beautifully when refrigerated overnight.

• Layer Wisely: When assembling your salad, layer denser ingredients like turkey and cheese at the bottom to create a sturdy base that keeps lighter items like lettuce from wilting.

• Customize Your Dressing: Feel free to adjust the dressing according to your taste by adding herbs or spices like oregano or red pepper flakes for an extra kick!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher your produce, the better your salad will taste. Opt for seasonal veggies whenever possible for a vibrant burst of flavor.

• Mix and Match Proteins: If turkey isn’t your favorite, try substituting it with chicken breast or a plant-based protein for a different twist on this classic dish.

How to Serve Italian Sub Salad, Two Ways

Serving this Italian Sub Salad can be just as fun as making it! With its colorful presentation, it’s sure to impress at any gathering. Here are some ideas for presenting this delicious dish:

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or basil sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and enhances the fresh flavor profile.
• Olive Oil Drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil right before serving can elevate the salad’s richness without overpowering it.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Breadsticks: These crispy treats are perfect for dipping into leftover dressing or enjoying alongside the salad.

• Caprese Skewers: Simple yet elegant, these skewers made with cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, and marinated mozzarella balls provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty salad.

• Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed or raw zucchini noodles offer a low-carb alternative that complements the salad’s flavors while adding extra crunch.

• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits provides a sweet finish that balances out the savory elements of your meal.

These serving suggestions will make your Italian Sub Salad not only delicious but also visually appealing, ensuring everyone has an enjoyable dining experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Italian Sub Salad is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip this up ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover salad in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent sogginess.

Freezing

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so freezing is not recommended.
• However, if you have leftover diced turkey or cheese, those can be frozen for future use.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat this salad; it’s meant to be served cold.
• If you have components you’d like warmed, such as turkey or cheese, briefly microwave them before adding to your salad.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Italian Sub Salad, Two Ways!

Can I customize the Italian Sub Salad, Two Ways with different vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies like cherry tomatoes or avocados. The beauty of this salad is its versatility!

How can I make the Italian Sub Salad, Two Ways vegetarian?

To make this salad vegetarian-friendly, simply omit the turkey and turkey pepperoni. You can add more cheese or even chickpeas for extra protein!

What are some good side dishes to serve with Italian Sub Salad, Two Ways?

This salad pairs wonderfully with a light soup or crusty bread. You could also serve it alongside grilled veggies for a complete meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making this Italian Sub Salad as I am! It’s such a delightful mix of flavors and textures that everyone will love. Whether you’re prepping it for yourself or sharing it with friends and family, I’m sure you’ll enjoy every bite. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to let me know how yours turns out!