The Italian sub sandwich is a beloved classic, known for its flavorful combination of cured meats, cheese, and fresh greens. This recipe will guide you to create this delicious sandwich from scratch, giving you the authentic taste of an Italian deli right in your home.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are common and easy to find, but some of the meats like mortadella, genoa salami, and capicollo may not be part of your usual grocery list. These are all Italian cured meats, each offering a distinct, flavorful addition to the sandwich. You can find these at the deli section in a well-stocked supermarket or an Italian specialty store.
Essential Ingredients for Your Italian Sub Sandwich
mayonnaise: A creamy spread that adds richness to the sandwich.
provolone cheese: A semi-hard Italian cheese that provides a tangy flavor.
ham: A common sandwich ingredient, offering a savory and salty taste.
mortadella: An Italian sausage known for its delicate and slightly spicy flavor.
genoa salami: A type of cured sausage, it adds a robust, savory flavor to your sandwich.
capicollo: An Italian cured meat that brings a spicy note to the mix.
romaine lettuce: Adds a refreshing crunch and lightness to the sandwich.
tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes contribute a hint of acidity and freshness.
red onion: Sliced thin, these add a sharp flavor that complements the rich meats and cheese.
italian dressing: Drizzled on top, it brings all the flavors together with its herbs and spices.
pickled peppers: These offer a tangy kick to your Italian sub.
sub rolls: The vessel for all these delicious ingredients, choose a roll that is crusty on the outside and soft within.
One reader, Cross Esparza says:
This Italian sub sandwich recipe is a game-changer! The combination of meats, cheeses, and zesty Italian dressing is a flavor explosion. The pickled peppers add the perfect kick. It's a must-try for anyone craving a delicious, authentic Italian sub experience. Buon appetito!
Key Techniques for Making an Italian Sub Sandwich
How to assemble the sub rolls: Layer the cheeses, meats, lettuce, onion, and tomatoes on the rolls, ensuring an even distribution of ingredients for a balanced flavor in each bite.
How to drizzle with Italian vinaigrette: Drizzle the Italian vinaigrette evenly over the assembled sub rolls to add a burst of tangy and herbaceous flavors to the sandwich.
How to toast the sub rolls (optional): If desired, lightly toast the sub rolls before assembling the sandwich to add a warm, crispy texture to the bread while still maintaining its soft interior.
How To Make Italian Sub Sandwich
Have a classy and filling Italian sub sandwich recipe for breakfast made with fresh ingredients tossed with a variety of sliced meat and creamy cheeses.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2tbspmayonnaiseor to taste
- 2ozprovolone cheese
- 2ozham
- 2ozmortadella
- 2ozGenoa salami
- 2ozcapicollo
- 1½cupsromaine lettuceshredded
- 2largetomatoesthickly sliced
- ½smallred onionthinly sliced
- 2tbspItalian dressing
- ¼cuppickled peppersor banana peppers
- 2largesub rolls
Instructions
-
Open sub rolls and lightly toast if desired. Spread with mayonnaise.
-
Layer cheeses, meats, lettuce, onion, and tomatoes on the rolls.
-
Drizzle with Italian vinaigrette and peppers.
Nutrition
- Calories: 737.03kcal
- Fat: 44.97g
- Saturated Fat: 14.43g
- Trans Fat: 0.14g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 15.31g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 12.71g
- Carbohydrates: 51.48g
- Fiber: 5.21g
- Sugar: 8.37g
- Protein: 31.82g
- Cholesterol: 97.69mg
- Sodium: 1910.51mg
- Calcium: 334.64mg
- Potassium: 863.21mg
- Iron: 4.51mg
- Vitamin A: 291.93µg
- Vitamin C: 39.88mg
Expert Tip for Elevating Your Italian Sub Sandwich
When layering your Italian sub sandwich, it's important to consider the order of your ingredients. Start with a layer of mayonnaise on the bread to create a moisture barrier, then add your cheeses and meats. This helps to keep the bread from getting soggy. Next, add your lettuce, onion, and tomatoes. Drizzle your Italian dressing over the veggies to distribute the flavor evenly. Finally, top with pickled peppers for a tangy kick. This order ensures a perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Italian Sub Sandwiches
Plan ahead: Prepare all the ingredients and condiments in advance to streamline the assembly process.
Use pre-sliced meats and cheeses: Save time by purchasing pre-sliced deli meats and cheeses from the grocery store.
Multi-task: While toasting the sub rolls, you can simultaneously prepare the sandwich fillings to save time.
Invest in a good knife: A sharp, quality knife will make slicing the vegetables and meats quicker and more efficient.
Organize your workspace: Keep all the ingredients and utensils within reach to avoid wasting time searching for items.
Substitute Ingredients For Italian Sub Sandwich Recipe
mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can provide a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor to mayonnaise, while also adding a boost of protein.
provolone cheese - Substitute with mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella cheese has a mild flavor and melts well, making it a suitable substitute for provolone in this sandwich.
ham - Substitute with smoked turkey: Smoked turkey offers a similar smoky flavor and texture to ham, making it a great alternative for this sandwich.
mortadella - Substitute with bologna: Bologna has a similar texture and flavor profile to mortadella, making it a suitable substitute for this sandwich.
genoa salami - Substitute with pepperoni: Pepperoni has a similar spicy and savory flavor to Genoa salami, making it a good substitute for this sandwich.
capicollo - Substitute with soppressata: Soppressata has a similar spicy and rich flavor to capicollo, making it a great alternative for this sandwich.
romaine lettuce - Substitute with iceberg lettuce: Iceberg lettuce provides a similar crisp texture and mild flavor to romaine, making it a suitable substitute for this sandwich.
tomatoes - Substitute with sundried tomatoes: Sun-dried tomatoes offer a concentrated sweet and tangy flavor, adding a unique twist to the sandwich.
red onion - Substitute with sweet onion: Sweet onions have a milder flavor compared to red onions, making them a good substitute for this sandwich.
italian dressing - Substitute with balsamic vinaigrette: Balsamic vinaigrette provides a tangy and slightly sweet flavor, complementing the sandwich ingredients well.
pickled peppers - Substitute with banana peppers: Banana peppers offer a similar tangy and slightly spicy flavor, making them a suitable substitute for this sandwich.
sub rolls - Substitute with ciabatta bread: Ciabatta bread has a similar chewy texture and crusty exterior, making it a great alternative for this sandwich.
How to Perfectly Present Your Italian Sub Sandwich
Elevate the sandwich with a charcuterie board presentation: Arrange the Italian sub ingredients on a wooden board, using small bowls for the pickled peppers and Italian dressing. This creates a visually appealing display that showcases the quality and variety of the ingredients.
Incorporate a rustic plating style: Serve the Italian sub on a wooden serving platter or a slate board to add a touch of rustic elegance. This presentation style complements the hearty and flavorful nature of the sandwich.
Create a deconstructed Italian sub salad: Arrange the ingredients of the Italian sub in a visually stunning deconstructed salad format. Layer the lettuce, tomatoes, meats, and cheeses in an artful manner, drizzle with Italian dressing, and garnish with pickled peppers for a modern twist on the classic sandwich.
Utilize a gourmet sandwich box: Present the Italian sub in a high-quality, custom-designed sandwich box, lined with parchment paper and garnished with fresh herbs. This adds an element of sophistication and makes the dish feel like a luxurious treat.
Craft a visually striking open-faced presentation: Transform the Italian sub into an open-faced masterpiece by arranging the meats and cheeses artistically on a slice of rustic bread. Garnish with vibrant lettuce, tomatoes, and pickled peppers for a visually striking presentation.
Essential Tools for Crafting the Perfect Italian Sub
Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile kitchen knife used for a variety of tasks such as chopping, slicing, and dicing.
Measuring cups: Used to measure liquid or dry ingredients accurately.
Measuring spoons: Essential for measuring small amounts of ingredients with precision.
Mixing bowl: Used for mixing ingredients, marinating, and storing food.
Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, flexible blade used for lifting, spreading, or flipping ingredients.
Sub roll knife: A serrated knife used for slicing sub rolls or bread.
Tongs: Used for gripping and lifting hot or cold ingredients safely.
Aluminum foil: Used for wrapping and covering food for cooking or storage.
Plastic wrap: Used to cover and protect food for storage in the refrigerator or freezer.
Storing and Freezing Italian Sub Sandwiches for Later
- For the best quality, assemble the italian sub sandwich right before serving. However, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator.
- Store the sliced meats, cheeses, and vegetables in separate airtight containers or resealable plastic bags in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- If you have leftover assembled sandwiches, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the bread may become slightly soggy due to the moisture from the ingredients.
- To freeze the sandwiches for longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag and store them in the freezer for up to 1 month.
- When ready to eat the frozen sandwiches, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. You can also thaw them at room temperature for a shorter time, but be cautious of any perishable ingredients like mayonnaise or italian dressing.
- For the best texture, you can toast the thawed sandwiches in the oven or on a panini press to help crisp up the bread and warm the ingredients through.
- If you have any leftover sub rolls, you can freeze them separately for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
How To Reheat Leftover Italian Sub Sandwiches
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the leftover italian sub sandwich in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet. Heat the sandwich in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted. This method will help restore the crispiness of the bread while evenly heating the meats and vegetables.
If you have a panini press or a grill pan, you can reheat your italian sub sandwich to perfection. Preheat the press or pan to medium heat. Place the sandwich on the preheated surface and press down firmly. Grill the sandwich for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted. This method will give your sandwich a delightful crunch and melt the cheese beautifully.
For a quick and easy reheating option, use your microwave. Place the leftover italian sub sandwich on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 30-45 seconds, or until the sandwich is heated through. To prevent the bread from becoming soggy, place a damp paper towel over the sandwich before microwaving. This method is perfect when you're short on time but still want to enjoy a tasty sandwich.
If you want to add a twist to your leftover italian sub sandwich, try transforming it into a delicious sandwich melt. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Open the sandwich and place it on a baking sheet, with the meats and vegetables facing up. Add extra cheese on top, if desired. Bake the open-faced sandwich for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This method will give you a whole new way to enjoy your leftover sandwich.
Interesting Trivia About Italian Sub Sandwiches
The Italian sub sandwich, also known as a hoagie or grinder, originated in the United States and not in Italy. It was created by Italian immigrants in the early 20th century and has become a popular sandwich in American cuisine. The combination of meats, cheeses, and vegetables in a sub roll makes for a delicious and satisfying meal. The Italian sub sandwich is a versatile dish that can be customized with different ingredients to suit individual tastes. It has become a staple in many delis and sandwich shops across the country.
Is Making Italian Sub Sandwiches at Home Cost-Effective?
The Italian sub sandwich recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as ham, mortadella, genoa salami, and provolone cheese, are reasonably priced and can be purchased in bulk. The addition of lettuce, tomatoes, and onions provides essential nutrients at a low cost. The Italian dressing and pickled peppers add flavor without breaking the bank. Overall Verdict: 9/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4: $20.
Is an Italian Sub Sandwich Healthy or Unhealthy?
The Italian sub sandwich recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main culprits are the processed meats like ham, mortadella, salami, and capicollo, which are high in sodium and saturated fats. The mayonnaise and Italian dressing also contribute to the overall fat content of the sandwich. Additionally, the sub rolls are likely made from refined flour, which lacks fiber and essential nutrients.
However, the sandwich does include some healthier elements, such as the romaine lettuce, tomatoes, and red onion. These vegetables provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber to the dish.
To make this Italian sub sandwich healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Opt for whole grain or whole wheat sub rolls to increase the fiber content
- Replace the processed meats with leaner options like grilled chicken or turkey
- Use a light mayonnaise or replace it with mashed avocado for a healthier spread
- Increase the amount of vegetables in the sandwich, such as adding sliced cucumbers or bell peppers
- Replace the Italian dressing with a homemade vinaigrette using olive oil and balsamic vinegar
- Limit the amount of cheese or choose a lower-fat variety like part-skim mozzarella
By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the flavors of an Italian sub sandwich while significantly reducing the sodium, saturated fat, and overall calorie content. Remember, moderation is key, and even with healthier ingredients, portion control is essential for maintaining a balanced diet.
Editor's Opinion on the Italian Sub Sandwich Recipe
This Italian sub sandwich recipe is a classic combination of flavors and textures. The layers of provolone, ham, mortadella, genoa salami, and capicollo create a delicious medley of savory and salty notes. The addition of crisp romaine lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and tangy pickled peppers adds a refreshing and zesty element. The Italian dressing ties everything together with its herby and tangy profile. Overall, this recipe is a delightful representation of a traditional Italian sub, perfect for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Why trust this Italian Sub Sandwich Recipe:
This recipe guarantees an authentic Italian sub sandwich experience with premium provolone cheese, ham, mortadella, genoa salami, and capicollo. The use of fresh romaine lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and crisp red onion ensures a burst of flavors and textures. The addition of zesty Italian dressing and tangy pickled peppers elevates the taste to perfection. Trust in the quality of the ingredients and the meticulous layering process to create a mouthwatering sub sandwich that will transport you to the streets of Italy.
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