Italian Sub Salad Sandwich (Easy Recipe!)

Introduction

Imagine capturing all the robust, zesty, and savory flavors of a classic Italian deli sandwich and transforming them into a vibrant, crunchy, and utterly satisfying salad. This Italian Sub Salad Sandwich (Easy Recipe!) recipe does exactly that. It deconstructs the beloved hoagie, taking the best parts of the cured meats, the sharp provolone, the tangy pepperoncini, and tossing them with crisp lettuce in a rich, creamy Italian dressing.

This versatile dish is perfect for a quick weekday lunch, a light yet fulfilling dinner, or a brilliant meal-prep solution that keeps you excited for lunchtime all week. What makes this particular recipe the definitive guide is its meticulous attention to balance, texture, and flavor, along with comprehensive tips that empower you to customize it to perfection. Prepare to experience your favorite sub in a refreshing new way.

Why This Italian Sub Salad Recipe Works

This isn’t just another salad; it’s a carefully crafted experience that stands out for several key reasons. It has rapidly become a favorite, often known as a `grinder salad recipe` on platforms like TikTok, and its popularity is well-deserved.

Flavor-Packed

Every single ingredient is chosen to contribute a distinct layer of flavor. You get the salty, savory punch from the salami and pepperoni, the sharp and nutty notes from the provolone cheese, the bright acidity from the cherry tomatoes and red wine vinegar, and the gentle heat from the `pepperoncini` peppers. The `creamy Italian dressing` ties it all together, creating a harmonious blend that is both rich and refreshing.

Quick and Easy

From start to finish, this entire `deli salad` can be on your table in under 25 minutes. The process involves simple chopping and whisking, making it an accessible recipe for cooks of all skill levels. There’s no complex cooking required, just fresh assembly for a gourmet-tasting meal.

Customizable

The beauty of this `hoagie salad` lies in its adaptability. You can easily swap out the meats, try different cheeses, or add your favorite vegetables. It’s a fantastic base recipe that invites experimentation, allowing you to create a version that’s uniquely yours.

Meal-Prep Friendly

This recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for delicious `meal prep salad` ideas. By storing the chopped components and the dressing separately, you can quickly assemble a fresh and satisfying salad in minutes, ensuring you have a healthy and delicious lunch ready to go throughout the busy week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the most authentic flavor, using high-quality deli ingredients is key. This list creates a balanced and classic Italian sub flavor profile.

For the Salad Base

• 1 large head of Romaine lettuce, washed and finely chopped
• 4 oz Genoa salami, diced into small cubes
• 4 oz pepperoni, diced into small cubes
• 6 oz provolone cheese, diced into small cubes
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
• 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers, plus 2 tablespoons of their brine

For the Creamy Italian Dressing

• 3/4 cup high-quality mayonnaise
• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons pepperoncini brine (from the jar)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Add-ins & Serving

• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/2 English cucumber, diced
• 4 large hoagie or sub rolls for serving

Step-by-Step For Italian Sub Salad Sandwich

Follow these simple steps to create a `chopped Italian salad` that is bursting with flavor and texture.

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by thoroughly washing and drying the Romaine lettuce. Chop it finely to ensure it mixes well with the other ingredients. Transfer the lettuce to a large, clear glass mixing bowl. Add the quartered cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and sliced pepperoncini peppers to the bowl.
2. Prepare the Meats and Cheese: On a clean, light-colored bamboo cutting board, use a professional chef’s knife with a black handle to dice the Genoa salami, pepperoni, and `provolone` cheese into small, uniform, bite-sized pieces, approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch in size. This ensures you get a perfect combination of flavors in every bite. Add the diced meats and cheese to the glass bowl with the vegetables.
3. Make the Dressing: In a separate small, white ceramic bowl, combine the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, pepperoncini brine, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Use a silver stainless steel wire whisk to mix vigorously until the dressing is smooth, creamy, and fully emulsified.
4. Combine and Toss: Pour the prepared creamy Italian dressing over the salad ingredients in the large glass bowl. Using two large spoons or salad tongs, gently toss everything together until every piece of lettuce, meat, and cheese is evenly coated in the delicious dressing.
5. Serve or Store: For the ultimate `Italian Sub Salad Sandwich`, generously stuff the finished salad into split hoagie rolls. Alternatively, serve it immediately in bowls as a standalone `sub in a tub`. If meal prepping, store the salad mixture and dressing in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Salad

• Uniform Chopping: The key to a great `chopped Italian salad` is ensuring all the main components (lettuce, meats, cheese) are chopped to a similar, bite-sized dimension. This creates the perfect texture and guarantees a balanced mix of flavors in every spoonful. For a deep dive into different chopping techniques, this guide on chopped salads offers excellent visuals and tips.
• Quality is Key: The flavor of your salad is directly tied to the quality of your ingredients. Opt for high-quality deli meats and a good block of `provolone` cheese rather than pre-shredded varieties for a superior taste and texture.
• Dress to Serve: To prevent the salad from becoming soggy, only add the dressing right before you plan to serve it. If you’re making it for a party, you can toss it about 15-20 minutes beforehand to let the flavors meld slightly.
• Add Extra Crunch: For an added layer of texture that mimics the crust of a good sub roll, toss in some homemade garlic and herb croutons just before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly forgiving and easy to adapt. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Meat Variations

Feel free to customize the `salami salad` base. Thinly sliced ham, prosciutto, capicola, or cooked turkey breast are all fantastic additions or substitutions.

Cheese Swaps

If provolone isn’t your favorite, this salad works wonderfully with other cheeses. Try using fresh mozzarella pearls, shaved Parmesan, or cubed sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Making it Keto/Low-Carb

This recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it a perfect `keto Italian sub salad`. Simply ensure your chosen deli meats are free of added sugars and serve it as a “sub in a tub” without the bread. The creamy dressing is already keto-friendly.

Making it Vegetarian

To create a delicious vegetarian version, omit the meat entirely. To add protein and substance, consider adding a can of rinsed chickpeas, some marinated artichoke hearts, and extra cheese.

What to Serve With Your Italian Sub Salad

The versatility of this dish is one of its greatest strengths. Here are the best ways to enjoy it:

• In a Sandwich: The classic approach! Pile the salad high into a fresh, crusty hoagie roll or a toasted sub loaf for the authentic `TikTok grinder sandwich` experience.
• With Bread: Serve the salad in a bowl with a side of warm, crusty garlic bread or focaccia for dipping into any extra dressing.
• As a Light Meal: It’s a complete and satisfying meal all on its own. Enjoy a generous bowl for a fulfilling lunch or a light dinner that’s packed with protein and flavor. If you enjoy hearty Italian-inspired meals, you might also love our recipe for creamy Italian sausage pasta.

Storage and Meal Prep Instructions

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the salad’s freshness, especially when meal prepping.

How to Store

For optimal results, store the undressed salad components in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep the `creamy Italian dressing` in a separate airtight container or jar. It will also stay fresh for up to 4 days.

Meal Prep Tips

At the start of the week, chop all your vegetables, meats, and cheese. Portion the salad mix into individual containers. Portion the dressing into small, leak-proof containers. When you’re ready to eat, just pour the dressing over the salad, shake or toss, and enjoy a perfectly fresh `meal prep salad`.

Nutritional Information & Serving Tips

This is an estimate, and actual values may vary based on the specific ingredients used.

• Serving Size: 1 of 6 servings (salad only)
• Estimated Calories: 455 kcal
• Protein: 21g
• Fat: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 3g

To reduce the calorie or fat content, you can use a light mayonnaise, opt for turkey instead of salami, or reduce the amount of cheese and olive oil in the recipe.

For more recipes: Marry Me Chicken Pasta Katie Lee Biegel Recipe

Conclusion

This Italian Sub Salad Sandwich is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of classic deli flavors presented in a fresh, modern way. It’s quick, endlessly customizable, and perfect for any occasion that calls for something delicious and satisfying. By combining savory meats, sharp cheese, and a zesty, creamy dressing, you create a meal that is guaranteed to become a new favorite in your household.

We encourage you to give this `grinder salad recipe` a try and discover just how delightful a deconstructed sub can be. Don’t forget to leave a comment with your favorite customizations, and pin this recipe for later!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Italian Sub Salad Sandwich (Easy Recipe!)

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• Author: Erika
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

All the iconic flavors of a classic Italian sub, brilliantly reimagined into a fresh, vibrant, and easy-to-make chopped salad. Perfect for a quick lunch, dinner, or meal prep.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 large head of Romaine lettuce, washed and finely chopped
• 4 oz Genoa salami, diced into small cubes
• 4 oz pepperoni, diced into small cubes
• 6 oz provolone cheese, diced into small cubes
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
• 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers, plus 2 tablespoons of their brine
• 3/4 cup high
• quality mayonnaise
• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons pepperoncini brine (from the jar)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/2 English cucumber, diced
• 4 large hoagie or sub rolls for serving

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by thoroughly washing and drying the Romaine lettuce.
2. Chop it finely to ensure it mixes well with the other ingredients. Transfer the lettuce to a large, clear glass mixing bowl.
3. Add the quartered cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and sliced pepperoncini peppers to the bowl.
4. Prepare the Meats and Cheese: On a clean, light-colored bamboo cutting board, use a professional chef’s knife with a black handle to dice the Genoa salami, pepperoni, and provolone cheese into small, uniform, bite-sized pieces, approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch in size.
5. This ensures you get a perfect combination of flavors in every bite.
6. Add the diced meats and cheese to the glass bowl with the vegetables.
7. Make the Dressing: In a separate small, white ceramic bowl, combine the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, pepperoncini brine, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
8. Use a silver stainless steel wire whisk to mix vigorously until the dressing is smooth, creamy, and fully emulsified.
9. Combine and Toss: Pour the prepared creamy Italian dressing over the salad ingredients in the large glass bowl.
10. Using two large spoons or salad tongs, gently toss everything together until every piece of lettuce, meat, and cheese is evenly coated in the delicious dressing.
11. Serve or Store: For the ultimate Italian Sub Salad Sandwich, generously stuff the finished salad into split hoagie rolls.
12. Alternatively, serve it immediately in bowls as a standalone ‘sub in a tub’. If meal prepping, store the salad mixture and dressing in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator.

Notes

For the best flavor, use high-quality deli meats and block cheese. Don’t dress the salad until just before serving to prevent it from becoming soggy. For a keto version, serve without the bread.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Chopping
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 of 6 servings
• Calories: 455 kcal
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 1250mg
• Fat: 38g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 26g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 21g
• Cholesterol: 75mg