I love the taste of a classic sub sandwich but want a healthier option. That’s why I’m excited about the Easy Sub in a Tub recipe. It’s a low-carb twist on the famous Jersey Mike’s sub. This sandwich salad is easy to make and lets you customize it to your liking.

Key Takeaways
- Inspired by the popular Jersey Mike’s sub, this recipe offers a low-carb alternative to traditional submarine sandwiches.
- The salad features a blend of fresh vegetables, deli meats, and cheeses dressed in a tangy Italian vinaigrette.
- Customizable with various add-ins and substitutions to suit individual preferences and dietary needs.
- Quick and easy to prepare, it is a convenient meal option for busy individuals.
- The recipe emphasizes organized meal prep and storage solutions for maximum convenience.
Table of Contents
What is a Sub in a Tub and Its Origins
The “sub in a tub” is a new take on the submarine sandwich. It’s low in carbs and gluten-free. It was inspired by Jersey Mike’s, a well-known sub shop.
Jersey Mike’s Inspiration
Jersey Mike’s created the sub in a tub for health-conscious customers. They wanted a sandwich that was both tasty and good for you. By serving the fillings in a bowl, they made a great option for those on low-carb diets or following gluten-free lifestyles.
Low-Carb Revolution
The sub in a tub became popular during the low-carb diet craze. It lets people enjoy their favorite sub-flavors without the carbs from bread. This dish hit those trying to stick to their diet plans.
The Perfect Alternative to Traditional Subs
The sub in a tub is now a top choice for a healthier sub-option. It’s easy to eat on the go and perfect for those watching their carb intake. It’s a tasty, nutritious swap for the classic sub.
“The sub in a tub is a game-changer for those who love the taste of a classic sub but want a healthier, low-carb option. It’s a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy your favorite sandwich fillings without the added starch from the bread.”
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Sub in a Tub Recipe
You need fresh, tasty ingredients to make the ultimate sub in a tub. A few key items come together for a great taste. This salad-like dish is a real treat.
Start with crisp lettuce as the base. Iceberg or romaine lettuce works best. It’s sturdy and lets other ingredients shine. Add juicy tomatoes, crunchy onions, and tangy pepperoncini peppers for more texture and flavour.
The dish wouldn’t be complete without premium deli meats. Ham, turkey, and salami add a rich flavour. Pair them with provolone cheese for a perfect balance.
A homemade Italian dressing is the final touch. It’s made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, and spices. You can adjust it to your liking, making the dish your own.
With these ingredients, you can make the perfect sub in a tub. It’s a tasty, satisfying alternative to a traditional sandwich that will please your taste buds.
Fresh Vegetables and Toppings Selection
Creating the perfect “Sub in a Tub” salad starts with choosing the right fresh vegetables and toppings. Lettuce adds crunch, while pepperoncini brings a tangy zing. Each ingredient is crucial for a flavorful and beautiful dish.
Best Lettuce Varieties to Use
The base of your salad is the lettuce. Iceberg and romaine are favourites for their crunch and neutral taste. Adding spinach or kale can boost nutrition and texture.
Optional Add-ins and Garnishes
- Cherry tomatoes for a juicy burst of freshness
- Sliced cucumbers for a refreshing crunch
- Pickled red onions for a tangy and colourful touch
- Fresh herbs like basil or parsley to enhance the overall flavor profile
Choosing the Right Pepperoncini
Pepperoncini or banana peppers are essential for a “Sub in a Tub” salad. They add a spicy kick and a tangy flavour. This contrast makes the dish complete.
By picking the perfect mix of vegetables for salads, lettuce varieties, and salad toppings, you make a “Sub in a Tub” salad. It looks great and tastes amazing in every bite.

Premium Deli Meats and Cheese Combinations
Creating the perfect sub in a tub starts with choosing the right deli meats and cheeses. Use top-notch ingredients for a meal that’s both tasty and packed with protein.
For meats, consider turkey, ham, salami, and pepperoni. Provolone is a classic cheese choice, but cheddar or Swiss can add a special touch. The goal is to mix flavours and textures for a great protein-rich salad.
Meat Combination | Cheese Pairing | Calories | Total Fat | Protein | Carbohydrates |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
4 slices of black forest ham | 8 slices of havarti cheese | 572 | 26.4 g | 30.6 g | 52.9 g |
8 slices of Buffalo chicken deli meat | 4 slices of pepper jack cheese | 288 | 13.1 g | 30.6 g | 13.1 g |
Try out different deli meat and cheese combinations to find your favourite. Mixing flavours well and making a healthy, tasty salad is key.
Creating the Signature Italian Dressing
Take your “sub in a tub” to the next level with homemade Italian dressing. It perfectly matches the bold flavours of meats, cheeses, and veggies. The dressing is made with extra-virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar. It’s also seasoned with a mix of flavours.
Oil and Vinegar Base
The Italian dressing starts with 3 tablespoons each of olive oil and red wine vinegar. This mix gives your sandwich a rich and tangy taste.
Perfect Seasoning Blend
To get that Italian taste, you’ll need a few ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano or an Italian seasoning blend
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
Just whisk these seasonings into the oil and vinegar base until they’re well mixed.
Storage Tips for Homemade Dressing
You can make the homemade Italian dressing up to 2 days ahead. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature. When you’re ready to eat, just shake the dressing well. This makes it easy to add to your “sub in a tub” just before you sit down to eat.
Step-by-Step Sub in a Tub Recipe
Making a Sub in a Tub is a fun way to enjoy a classic Italian submarine sandwich. But it’s made with a refreshing, low-carb twist. Follow these easy steps to make this tasty salad for a quick and satisfying meal.
- Start by chopping all your ingredients into bite-sized pieces. This includes the lettuce, vegetables, meats, and cheeses.
- Combine the chopped lettuce, vegetables, deli meats, and cheese in a large bowl. Toss gently to mix everything together.
- Prepare the signature Italian dressing by whisking the oil, vinegar, and seasonings together in a separate bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the salad before serving and toss to coat evenly. If using croutons or bread, add them last to maintain their crunchiness.
- Serve the Sub in a Tub immediately for the best texture and flavour.
This recipe serves 2 people. Each serving has 607 calories, 4g of carbs, 38g of protein, and 48g of fat. It also has 15g of saturated fat and 1329mg of sodium. Nutritional values are approximate.
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Mixed Greens | 8 cups |
Grilled Chicken Strips | 4 cups |
Salami | 8 ounces |
Pepperoni | 8 ounces |
Provolone Cheese | 2 cups |
Italian Dressing | 1 cup |
This Sub in a Tub recipe is one of 25 refreshing salad bowl options perfect for a delicious summer meal. Each recipe is designed to serve 4 people, making it easy to scale up for larger gatherings. Enjoy this tasty and low-carb alternative to traditional subs!

Time-Saving Preparation Tips and Techniques
Creating the perfect Sub in a Tub is all about being efficient. Discover how to make your kitchen work faster with these tips and techniques.
Chopping Methods
Forget about tedious hand-chopping. Use kitchen gadgets like a vegetable chopper or food processor. They chop ingredients fast and evenly, saving you time.
Make-Ahead Strategies
Success in meal prep techniques and efficient salad preparation starts with prep. Chop lettuce, onions, and other veggies ahead of time. Store them in the fridge until you can put your salad together.
Also, make your homemade Italian dressing before you start. Keep it at room temperature for easy use. These time-saving kitchen tips will help you quickly make a tasty Sub in a Tub. You’ll have more time to enjoy your meal.
Customization Options and Dietary Modifications
The beauty of a sub-in-a-tub recipe is its flexibility. It can meet specific dietary needs or just offer a new twist. Let’s look at how you can make your sub in a tub your own.
Dietary Accommodations
For gluten-free diets, skip the bread for a low-carb salad. Jersey Mike’s now offers gluten-free sub rolls at all U.S. locations. This makes it easy to enjoy a sub while following dietary rules.
If you’re dairy-free, leave out the cheese or use dairy-free shredded cheese. For a vegan option, replace deli meats with grilled tofu or tempeh. This adds a protein boost.
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
- Change up the protein sources like grilled chicken or turkey breast for different tastes.
- Choose your favourite vegetables or go with what’s in season for a fresh salad.
- Try different dressings like ranch, Caesar, or balsamic vinaigrette to find your favourite.
- Add toppings like avocado, hard-boiled eggs, fresh herbs, or croutons to change the texture and taste.
Creating your own customizable salad recipes is endless. By considering dietary restrictions and personal likes, you can make the sub in a tub a healthy, personalized salad.

Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Deli Turkey Breast | 8 oz |
Deli Ham | 8 oz |
Salami | 8 oz |
Mozzarella Cheese | 1 cup, shredded |
Cheddar Cheese | 1 cup, shredded |
Lettuce | 4 cups, shredded |
Cherry Tomatoes | 2 cups |
Cucumbers | 1 cup, sliced |
Red Onions | 1/2 cup, sliced |
Bell Peppers | 1/2 cup, sliced |
Olive Oil | 1/2 cup |
Red Wine Vinegar | 1/4 cup |
Italian Seasoning | 1 tbsp |
Storage and Meal Prep Guidelines
Preparing meals ahead of time can really change your eating habits. To keep your food fresh and tasty, following storage tips is key. We’ll examine the best containers and how to keep your salad ingredients fresh.
Best Containers for Storage
Get high-quality, airtight containers for your prepped food. They keep freshness in and prevent contamination. Choose leak-proof, divided containers for your sub in a tub.
How to Keep Ingredients Fresh
Keep the dressing separate from the other ingredients. This stops your salad from getting soggy. Also, store chopped veggies and proteins in their own spots to avoid mixing.
When prepping, put your sub in separate tub parts. Leave room for the dressing. This makes it easy to grab a meal all week. Eat your meals within 1-2 days for the best taste.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your sub in a tub all week. Meal prep becomes easy, and you get to enjoy your favourite sandwich salad.
Conclusion
The Sub in a Tub recipe from Jersey Mike’s is a healthy twist on traditional sandwiches. It combines a salad’s freshness with a submarine sandwich’s flavours. This makes it perfect for quick lunches or light dinners.
It’s great for those on low-carb, keto, or gluten-free diets. Or if you just want a healthier meal option. The Sub in a Tub is a satisfying and customizable choice.
It’s a sub-in-tub benefit with many protein choices, fresh veggies, and tasty condiments. It’s also a healthy meal option that fits well into your meal plan. You can make it your own with different toppings and preparation tips.
The Sub in a Tub shows the need for healthier meals in fast food. Its growing popularity shows it’s a hit. It’s a tasty, nutritious, and easy alternative to regular sandwiches.

sub in a tub Recipe
🥗 Skip the bread and dive into a refreshing, low-carb Sub in a Tub Salad! Packed with all your favorite sub toppings, this delicious, protein-filled salad is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. 🥒🍅
Ingredients
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 4 oz sliced deli turkey or ham
- 4 oz sliced deli salami
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup bell pepper, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup banana peppers
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, provolone, or mozzarella)
- 2 tbsp Italian dressing or dressing of choice
Instructions
- Layer the Lettuce: Begin with a bed of romaine lettuce in a large bowl or serving container.
- Add Protein: Top with turkey or ham, and salami. Slice or dice to your preferred size.
- Add Vegetables: Scatter cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion over the protein.
- Add Cheese and Peppers: Sprinkle shredded cheese and banana peppers for extra flavor.
- Dress and Serve: Drizzle with Italian dressing and toss lightly to combine.
Notes
Nutrition Information
Yield 2Amount Per ServingCalories 250Total Fat 15gCarbohydrates 6gProtein 18g
FAQ
What is a Sub in a Tub?
A Sub in a Tub is a tasty dish inspired by Jersey Mike’s. It has fresh veggies, cheese, meats, and homemade dressing. It’s a low-carb option that’s easy to make at home and can be tailored to your liking.
Where did the Sub in a Tub concept originate?
Jersey Mike’s started the Sub in a Tub as a low-carb choice. It’s a sandwich without bread, perfect for those on a low-carb diet. It became popular during the low-carb trend, offering a healthier sub-option.
What are the key ingredients in a Sub in a Tub?
The main ingredients are iceberg or romaine lettuce, tomatoes, onions, pepperoncini, provolone cheese, and deli meats. They’re all dressed with a simple Italian vinaigrette.
Can I customize the Sub in a Tub recipe?
Yes, you can make the Sub in a Tub your own. Change up the veggies, meats, cheeses, and dressing to fit your taste and diet.
How do I make the Italian dressing for the Sub in a Tub?
The dressing is made with extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. You can add mayonnaise for creaminess or try basil or thyme for extra flavour.
How do I prepare and store the ingredients for the sub in a tub?
Cut all ingredients into pieces of the same size and keep them in the fridge. Make the dressing ahead of time and let it come to room temperature. Assemble the salad just before eating to keep it fresh and prevent it from getting soggy.
Can I make the Sub in a Tub recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients before and store them in the fridge. Put the salad together before eating for the best taste and texture. The dressing can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container.
Source Links
- https://30seconds.com/food/tip/65829/Sub-In-a-Tub-Recipe-This-Low-Carb-Sandwich-Salad-Recipe-Is-Fun-to-Say-Eat – Sub In-a Tub Recipe: This Low-Carb Sandwich Salad Recipe Is Fun to Say & Eat | Salads | 30Seconds Food