Italian Sub Salad

This Italian sub salad transforms your favorite sandwich into a fresh, vibrant bowl that satisfies cravings without the bread. My family started making this when we wanted something lighter but still craved those classic Italian deli flavors.

I created this recipe when I was trying to cut back on carbs but missed my weekly Italian sub sandwich. The combination of the meats, cheese, and tangy dressing perfectly captures that deli experience in salad form.

Ingredients

• Romaine lettuce: Forms the crisp foundation; choose hearts for the best crunch
• Turkey slices: Add lean protein; look for quality deli meat without fillers
• Salami: Brings that authentic Italian flavor; opt for a good quality brand
• Provolone cheese: Adds creamy texture; aged varieties offer more flavor
• Banana peppers: Provide essential tang and heat; select from the olive bar for freshest flavor
• Black olives: Contribute briny richness; Kalamata works wonderfully too
• Cherry tomatoes: Offer bursts of sweetness; choose ripe ones for best flavor
• Italian dressing packet: Creates convenience while allowing customization
• Italian seasoning: Enhances the authentic profile; freshly crushed herbs release more flavor
• Extra virgin olive oil: Forms the base for quality dressing; first cold press is best

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare The Base:

Chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces ensuring they're thoroughly dried to prevent soggy salad. Place in a medium bowl, creating a fluffy base that will catch all the dressing.

Layer The Proteins And Cheese:

Arrange the turkey slices, torn into manageable pieces, across the lettuce. Add the salami next, followed by thin slices of provolone, creating distinct layers of flavor that will blend when tossed.

Add The Signature Italian Elements:

Distribute the banana peppers, black olives, and halved cherry tomatoes across the top of the salad. These ingredients provide the classic Italian sub flavor profile and bright visual appeal.

Create The Dressing:

Follow package directions for the Good Seasonings packet, whisking thoroughly to emulsify. Add the additional Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, sugar, and garlic powder, whisking until completely incorporated. The extra seasonings elevate the basic dressing to restaurant quality.

Finish And Serve:

Drizzle approximately one ounce of dressing over the assembled salad. The key is to add just enough to coat the ingredients without drowning them. Serve immediately for maximum freshness and crunch.

Pin it

My absolute favorite part of this salad is the banana peppers. They remind me of visits to my grandparents' house in New Jersey where Italian subs were a Sunday tradition. That tangy, slightly spicy bite takes me right back to those family gatherings.

Make Ahead Tips

This salad works beautifully as a make-ahead lunch option. Prepare all components but store separately. The lettuce can be washed and dried, then placed in a container with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. Keep meats, cheese, and vegetables in separate containers. The dressing will stay fresh in a sealed jar for up to one week in the refrigerator. Assemble just before eating for the freshest experience.

Creative Variations

While this recipe captures the classic Italian sub flavors, you can customize it endlessly. Try adding pepperoncini for extra zing or roasted red peppers for sweetness. Swap turkey for ham or capicola for a more traditional Italian approach. Add chickpeas or white beans for extra protein and fiber. For a heartier version, include cubed Italian bread tossed with olive oil and garlic to create a hybrid between a salad and a panzanella.

Dietary Adaptations

This recipe easily adapts to various dietary needs. For a vegetarian version, omit the meats and add extra cheese or vegetarian protein like chickpeas. Those avoiding dairy can skip the provolone and add avocado for creaminess. For a completely vegan version, use plant-based deli slices, vegan cheese, and ensure your dressing contains no animal products. Low-carb eaters will appreciate this bread-free version of an Italian classic that still delivers all the flavors.

Pin it

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make the Italian vinaigrette ahead of time?

Yes! The homemade Italian vinaigrette can be prepared several days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. In fact, letting it chill for a few hours allows the flavors to blend together better. Just give it a good shake or whisk before using.

→ What can I substitute for banana peppers?

If you don't have banana peppers, pepperoncini, pickled jalapeños (for a spicier option), or roasted red peppers make excellent substitutes. Each will provide a different flavor profile but will maintain the vinegary, tangy element that complements the other ingredients.

→ How can I make this Italian Sub Salad more filling?

To make the salad more substantial, consider adding chickpeas, white beans, or kidney beans for protein and fiber. You can also include cubed mozzarella, more meat portions, avocado, or even some cooked pasta to transform it into a heartier pasta salad.

→ Can I prepare this salad in advance for meal prep?

Yes, but with some adjustments. Store the chopped lettuce, meat, cheese, and vegetables separately from the dressing. When ready to eat, combine all ingredients and add the dressing just before serving to prevent the lettuce from becoming soggy.

→ What bread pairs well with this salad?

For a complete meal, serve with a side of Italian bread, garlic bread, or focaccia. Alternatively, you could serve the salad in a hollowed-out bread bowl or with crostini for added crunch and to capture the complete Italian sub experience.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this salad?

Absolutely! Replace the deli meats with plant-based protein options like chickpeas, white beans, vegetarian pepperoni, or marinated tempeh. You can also add extra vegetables like roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, and cucumber to create a satisfying vegetarian version.