Italian Sub Salad, Two Ways

If you’re looking for a refreshing and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion, you’ve come to the right place! My Italian Sub Salad, Two Ways is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. This recipe is not only low carb but also bursting with vibrant flavors and textures that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a summer picnic, enjoying a cozy family dinner, or just need something easy during a busy weeknight, this salad checks all the boxes.

What makes this dish truly special is its versatility. You can serve it as a light main course or as an impressive side dish. Plus, it caters to different dietary preferences! By preparing it two ways—one low carb and one with tri-colored tortellini—you can satisfy both your carb-loving friends and those who prefer to keep things lighter. Let’s dive into why you’ll adore this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad comes together in no time, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
• Family-Friendly: With its colorful ingredients and delicious flavors, everyone at the table will be asking for seconds!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it in advance and let the flavors meld overnight for a fantastic meal ready when you are.
• Customizable Options: Serve it two ways or switch up the ingredients based on what you have on hand—flexibility at its best!
• Healthy Indulgence: Enjoy all the flavors of an Italian sub without the bread, perfect for those mindful of their carbs!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s where the magic happens! You’ll find that these ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy to whip up this fabulous salad. Gather these fresh items to get started:

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 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

Remember, if you want to cater to carb lovers too, just add one cooked and cooled bag of tri-colored tortellini right before serving!

Variations

One of the best things about this Italian Sub Salad is how flexible it is. You can easily adapt it based on your preferences or what’s available in your pantry. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or even some roasted vegetables if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Change up the cheese: Go for mozzarella or feta instead of provolone for a different flavor profile.
• Add some crunch: Toss in some nuts like walnuts or sunflower seeds for an extra texture boost.
• Make it spicy: Include sliced jalapeños or sprinkle some red pepper flakes if you love a bit of heat.

How to Make Italian Sub Salad, Two Ways

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Start by taking a large bowl and adding your shredded romaine lettuce. This creates a crisp foundation for your salad. Next, layer on the colorful peppers, meats, cheeses, onions, and cucumbers. Arranging them nicely not only looks beautiful but allows each bite to combine all those wonderful flavors.

Step 2: Season and Chill

Once everything is layered in your bowl, sprinkle lightly with salt and oregano to enhance those vibrant tastes. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight if you can wait! This step is key as it allows all those delicious flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Dressing

While your salad chills out in the fridge, whisk together all the dressing ingredients in a separate bowl. Letting the dressing sit overnight gives it time to develop deeper flavors too!

Step 4: Serve with Love

When you’re ready to serve, you have two options: either toss the entire salad with your dressing or serve it on the side so everyone can dress their own portions. Either way, it’s going to be delicious!

Enjoy every bite of your Italian Sub Salad, Two Ways! It’s sure to become a go-to recipe that brings smiles around your table.

Pro Tips for Making Italian Sub Salad, Two Ways

Creating a delightful Italian Sub Salad is all about balancing flavors and textures, so here are some tips to elevate your dish!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality meats. Fresh ingredients not only enhance the taste but also add vibrant colors that make your salad visually appealing.
• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for a few hours helps the flavors meld together beautifully. This way, every bite is packed with deliciousness.
• Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to swap out or add any of your favorite veggies or proteins. Personalizing the salad means it will cater to your taste buds perfectly!
• Make Extra Dressing: Having extra dressing on hand can be a game changer. It allows guests to adjust the flavor to their liking, ensuring everyone enjoys their meal.
• Consider Texture Variety: Mixing crunchy elements like cucumbers with softer ingredients like cheese creates a delightful eating experience. Don’t hesitate to include nuts or seeds for an added crunch!

How to Serve Italian Sub Salad, Two Ways

This Italian Sub Salad is not just delicious but can also be presented beautifully! Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, here are some fun ideas on how to serve it.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil Leaves: A sprinkle of fresh basil leaves adds an aromatic touch that complements the Italian flavors wonderfully.
• Parmesan Shavings: Thin shavings of Parmesan cheese can be scattered on top for an elegant finish and an extra burst of cheesy goodness.
• Olive Oil Drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil right before serving enhances flavor and adds a beautiful gloss to your salad.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Breadsticks: These warm, buttery sticks are perfect for dipping into any leftover dressing. They offer a comforting addition that everyone loves.
• Caprese Skewers: Simple yet stunning, these skewers made with cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil are easy to prepare and offer a burst of flavor alongside your salad.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables brings warmth and earthiness that contrasts beautifully with the freshness of the salad.
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits can serve as a refreshing palate cleanser after your hearty meal, rounding out your dinner perfectly.

Now you’re ready to impress family and friends with this vibrant and satisfying Italian Sub Salad served in two delicious ways! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Italian Sub Salad is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy a delicious and healthy lunch or dinner throughout the week. You can prepare the salad ingredients in advance and keep them fresh until you’re ready to serve!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent sogginess.

Freezing

• This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the fresh ingredients that may lose texture and flavor when thawed.
• However, you can freeze the dressing separately in a sealed container and store it for up to a month.

Reheating

• Since this salad is served cold, there’s no need to reheat it.
• Simply toss with the dressing before serving or serve the dressing on the side for your guests to add as they like.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Italian Sub Salad, Two Ways.

Can I make Italian Sub Salad, Two Ways without cheese?

Absolutely! You can omit the cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free alternative if desired.

How do I customize my Italian Sub Salad, Two Ways?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as olives or artichokes, or even switch up the meats based on your preference!

Is Italian Sub Salad, Two Ways suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This salad is great for meal prep and can be made ahead of time for quick meals during the week.

What should I serve with my Italian Sub Salad, Two Ways?

This salad pairs nicely with grilled chicken or fish for added protein. You could also serve it alongside crusty breadsticks or a light soup.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Italian Sub Salad, Two Ways as much as I do! It’s not only a vibrant addition to your table but also versatile enough to cater to different tastes. Whether you’re serving low-carb friends or those who love a good pasta twist, this salad is sure to please everyone. Dive into this delightful dish and savor every bite—happy cooking!