Italian Sub Salad Recipe: Easy & Delicious (2 Versions)

Italian Sub Salad is a delicious and versatile dish that captures all the flavors of a traditional Italian sub sandwich but without the bread. This recipe offers two variations, one for those who prefer a low-carb version and another for pasta lovers. Both versions are packed with flavorful meats, cheeses, and fresh vegetables, making it the perfect dish for any occasion.

Why This Italian Sub Salad Stands Out

What makes this Italian Sub Salad stand out is its ability to satisfy both low-carb eaters and pasta lovers alike. It’s an easy, quick, and healthy option that combines all the best ingredients of a classic Italian sub sandwich. Whether you prefer the crunch of fresh lettuce or the heartiness of tortellini pasta, this salad is sure to delight everyone at the table.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients. The combination of meats, cheeses, and fresh vegetables creates a mouthwatering salad that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

• Hearts of Romaine: Provides a crisp, refreshing base for the salad.
• Salami: Adds a tangy, savory flavor to the dish.
• Provolone: Offers a smooth, slightly sharp taste that complements the other ingredients.
• Mini Fresh Mozzarella Balls: Delivers a creamy texture and subtle flavor.
• Cucumber: Adds a cool, crisp crunch.
• Red Pepper: Brings sweetness and vibrant color.
• Mild Pepper Rings: Gives a slight tangy kick.
• White Onion: Adds a bit of sharpness and crunch.
• Black Pepper: Enhances the overall flavor of the salad.
• Dried Basil: Infuses a herby aroma and depth of flavor.
• Parmesan: Adds a rich, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
• Pepperoni: Gives the salad an extra bit of savory richness.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

For those looking for variations or substitutions:

• Tortellini: If you’re opting for the carb-friendly version, add cooked and cooled tri-colored tortellini to one of the salad variations.
• Cheese Variations: Swap out provolone for mozzarella or use a different cheese that you enjoy, like cheddar or gouda.
• Meat Options: Instead of salami and pepperoni, try using turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this Italian Sub Salad is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps to create a flavorful dish that everyone will love.

1. Start by shredding the hearts of romaine lettuce and placing them in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the salami, provolone, mozzarella balls, cucumber, red pepper, pepper rings, and onion. Arrange the ingredients neatly over the lettuce.
3. Sprinkle the salad lightly with black pepper and dried basil to enhance the flavors.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor infusion.
5. For the dressing, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, garlic powder, basil, brown sugar (or natural sweetener), and kosher salt. Let the dressing chill in the fridge overnight for maximum flavor.
6. Serve the dressing on the side or toss the entire salad together with the dressing before serving.

Tips & Tricks

To make your Italian Sub Salad even better, here are a few helpful tips:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Bowl: When arranging your ingredients, make sure they are spread evenly to allow the flavors to mix well.
• Chill the Salad: The salad benefits from chilling for a few hours. The longer it sits, the more the flavors develop and meld together.
• Adjust the Dressing: Feel free to adjust the seasoning of the dressing to your taste. You can add more sugar for sweetness or extra garlic powder for a stronger flavor.
• Store Leftovers: Keep leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. If you’ve already mixed the dressing into the salad, the lettuce may wilt over time, so it’s best to store the dressing separately.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

Italian Sub Salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes or as part of a larger meal.

• Side Dish Suggestions: Serve with mini burgers, such as cheesy beef sliders, for a hearty meal. For a lighter option, try pairing it with grilled vegetables.
• Make-Ahead Notes: This salad can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to two days. However, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve for the best texture.
• Spicy Variation: For a spicier twist, add some hot pepperoncini or drizzle with a spicy Italian dressing.

Seasonal & Health Benefits

Italian Sub Salad is the perfect dish for any season. In the warmer months, the fresh vegetables and crunchy lettuce provide a light and refreshing meal. The salad is also full of protein from the meats and cheese, making it a satisfying option for those looking to fuel their bodies.

Additionally, this salad offers a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, along with heart-healthy fats from the olive oil in the dressing. For those following a low-carb diet, this salad provides a flavorful, satisfying alternative to traditional sandwiches.

By adjusting the ingredients and dressing, you can easily customize this salad to fit a variety of dietary needs, making it a versatile and healthy option for any table.

Conclusion

Italian Sub Salad is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a quick and satisfying meal. Its vibrant mix of fresh vegetables, savory meats, and rich cheeses creates a flavor-packed salad that can be enjoyed in two delightful variations—one with lettuce and the other with tortellini pasta. This dish not only tastes amazing but also accommodates various dietary preferences, making it a great choice for everyone at the table. So, whether you’re keeping things low-carb or indulging in some pasta goodness, this Italian Sub Salad is sure to impress.

FAQ

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