Can I make Italian Sub Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad ahead of time. It actually improves in flavor after sitting for a few hours or overnight, allowing the dressing to soak into the vegetables and meats. If you add tortellini, it's best to mix it in just before serving to keep it from becoming soggy.

How long will Italian Sub Salad last in the fridge?

The salad can last up to 2-3 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container. However, for the best texture and flavor, it's recommended to eat it within 24-48 hours. If you add tortellini, the salad may become softer over time.

Can I make a vegetarian version of Italian Sub Salad?

Absolutely! You can make a vegetarian version by omitting the meats (salami, pepperoni, and any other cured meats) and adding more cheese or protein-rich ingredients like chickpeas or tofu. You can also incorporate additional vegetables like olives or artichokes for more flavor.

Italian Sub Salad Recipe

Name: Italian Sub Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 4 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 Hearts of Romaine, Shredded; 1/2 lb of Salami, 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 Pepperoni, Diced; 1 C Red Wine Vinegar (For the Dressing); 1/2 C Olive Oil (For the Dressing); 1 T Garlic Powder (For the Dressing); 1 T Dried Basil (For the Dressing); 1 T Brown Sugar (or a natural sweetener) (For the Dressing); 2 t Kosher Salt (For the Dressing)

Description

Italian Sub Salad is a delicious, refreshing dish that brings the classic flavors of an Italian sub sandwich into a healthy, low-carb salad. Packed with savory meats, creamy cheeses, crisp vegetables, and a tangy homemade dressing, this salad is perfect for lunch or as a side dish at dinner. Whether you’re trying to eat healthier or simply looking for a unique way to enjoy your favorite sandwich flavors, this Italian Sub Salad offers a satisfying and flavorful alternative.

Ingredients

Scale

2 Hearts of Romaine, Shredded
1/2 lb of Salami, 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 Pepperoni, Diced
1 C Red Wine Vinegar (For the Dressing)
1/2 C Olive Oil (For the Dressing)
1 T Garlic Powder (For the Dressing)
1 T Dried Basil (For the Dressing)
1 T Brown Sugar (or a natural sweetener) (For the Dressing)
2 t Kosher Salt (For the Dressing)

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Instructions

Begin by preparing the romaine lettuce, shredding it into bite-sized pieces, and placing it in a large bowl.
Next, slice the salami, provolone cheese, and parmesan cheese into squares. Add them to the bowl along with the mini mozzarella balls.
Slice the cucumber, red pepper, and white onion into thin strips, then add them to the salad.
Toss in the mild pepper rings and pepperoni for extra flavor.
Sprinkle black pepper and dried basil over the top of the salad.
For the dressing, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, garlic powder, dried basil, brown sugar, and kosher salt. Allow the dressing to sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to meld the flavors.
Pour the dressing over the salad just before serving or serve it on the side.
Optionally, refrigerate the salad for a few hours or overnight to allow the flavors to marinate.

Notes

Chill the salad for at least 4 hours to allow the dressing to soak into the ingredients for enhanced flavor.
This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
For a pasta version, add cooked tri-colored tortellini to the salad just before serving.
If you prefer a lighter version, you can omit the pepperoni and use a smaller amount of cheese.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 18g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 35mg