Italian Sub Salad Bowl

This Italian Sub Salad lets you enjoy all the flavors of a classic Italian sandwich but in a lighter bowl that leaves you feeling satisfied instead of stuffed. Loaded with crisp greens, savory meats, sharp cheese, a pop of tangy banana peppers and a simple vinaigrette, this recipe is always a hit on busy afternoons when a foot-long sub just feels like too much.

I first made this for my family after a week of too many takeout subs and it quickly turned into our most requested salad for Sunday get togethers

Ingredients

• Romaine lettuce: crisp and refreshing base that holds up to hearty toppings always choose fresh heads free from browning and wilt
• Sliced turkey: lean protein that blends well with bolder meats opt for natural deli cuts without added fillers if possible
• Salami: rich salty flavor select thinly sliced or cube up a few slices for easy bites
• Provolone cheese: creamy and tangy pick a wedge instead of pre shredded for the best texture
• Cherry tomatoes: juicy freshness to balance out salty meats look for firm and bright red
• Banana peppers: sharp tanginess with a touch of heat jarred varieties are convenient and add just enough zing
• Black olives: smooth saltiness pick sliced ripe olives in brine for best flavor
• Italian vinaigrette: ties everything together classic zippy dressing homemade gives the best flavor but store bought is fine in a pinch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Lettuce:

Wash a head of romaine lettuce thoroughly then shake dry and chop into bite sized pieces filling your largest salad bowl you want the greens to fill the bowl at least halfway so each bite gets plenty of crunch

Prepare the Meat and Cheese:

Lay slices of turkey and salami stacked on a cutting board cut into bite sized cubes or strips aim for uniform size to keep each forkful balanced then slice provolone into small squares or thin strips

Slice the Veggies:

Halve cherry tomatoes cutting each one lengthwise for juiciness in every bite slice a handful of banana peppers as thin as you like for milder or bolder flavor then drain the sliced black olives and pat dry

Assemble the Salad:

Add the chopped turkey salami and cheese over the lettuce then scatter tomatoes banana peppers and olives evenly over the top for colorful presentation and flavor in every layer

Dress and Toss:

Drizzle Italian vinaigrette generously over the salad just before serving then use salad tongs to toss everything together until the ingredients are glistening but not soggy taste and adjust dressing if needed

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Provolone is always my favorite in this salad because it melts just enough if the dressing brings a little warmth nothing brings back summer picnics quite like the first bite of tangy cheese and spicy banana pepper

Storage Tips

Once dressed this salad is best eaten right away but if you want to prep ahead keep everything separate and combine right before serving The lettuce stays crisp the meats and cheese hold their shape and the dressing does not make things soggy Store chopped lettuce in a salad spinner lined with paper towels

Ingredient Substitutions

This salad is hugely versatile Swap turkey for ham capicola or prosciutto Switch out provolone for Parmigiano Reggiano or fresh mozzarella Not a fan of olives Try roasted red peppers for a sweeter note

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Serving Suggestions

Serve this salad as a main dish with crusty bread on the side if you arent counting carbs It is also fantastic served alongside a big bowl of minestrone soup or as part of an Italian themed buffet

Cultural Context

Italian sub salads are an American nod to classic deli flavors but in a fresher lighter form While not strictly traditional Italian cuisine they capture all the ingredients found in favorite East Coast sandwich shops and turn them into something fun for lunch or dinner

Commonly Asked Questions

→ What meats can I use besides turkey and salami?

Capicola, ham, prosciutto, pancetta, or salsiccia all work well to boost the classic Italian taste of the salad.

→ Which cheeses complement this salad?

Provolone gives a mild creaminess, while Parmigiano-Reggiano offers a richer, nutty flavor for extra depth.

→ What dressing pairs best?

A homemade Italian vinaigrette blends perfectly, but creamy Italian or olive oil and balsamic also make tasty options.

→ Is it suitable for meal prep?

Yes, simply prepare your ingredients and store separately, tossing together with dressing just before serving.

→ How can I add extra crunch?

Sprinkle in sliced red onions, cucumbers, or toasted croutons for enhanced texture and flavor.