As summer rolls in, I find myself craving vibrant, fresh meals that don’t skimp on flavor. Enter my Italian Sub Salad, two ways—a deliciously inventive twist on the classic Italian sub sandwich. This recipe caters to both the low-carb enthusiasts and the pasta lovers with options for a crisp lettuce base or a delightful carb-friendly tortellini version. Not only does this salad pack a refreshing crunch that feels downright indulgent, but it’s also a breeze to whip up, making it the ultimate crowd-pleaser for backyard barbecues and family gatherings. Are you ready to discover the best of both worlds in a dish that promises to satisfy every palate?

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Versatile Options: Whether you’re on a low-carb kick or craving hearty pasta, this recipe has you covered with its two delightful variations.
Bursting with Flavor: Each bite is a symphony of tastes, thanks to the savory salami, tangy pepper rings, and creamy mozzarella.
Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll have this salad ready in no time, perfect for a last-minute gathering.
Crowd Favorite: Serve both versions and watch everyone dive in—it’s a surefire hit at summer barbecues! For extra freshness, consider pairing this salad with a refreshing Cucumber Salad Italian.
Customizable: You can easily add your favorite toppings or adjust the ingredients to accommodate dietary needs, making it truly personal.

Italian Sub Salad Two Ways Ingredients

For the Low Carb Version

Hearts of Romaine – Shredded for a crisp base; any leafy greens can be used.
Salami – Adds rich, savory flavor; substitute with your favorite deli meat.
Provolone – Provides a creamy texture; mozzarella can be swapped for a milder taste.
Marinated Mini Fresh Mozzarella Balls – Enhance the salad with bursts of flavor; regular mozzarella, diced, works too.
Cucumber – Offers freshness and crunch; zucchini is a great alternative.
Red Pepper – Adds sweetness and color; any bell pepper is suitable.
Mild Pepper Rings – Contributes a tangy profile; consider jalapeños for some heat.
White Onion – Provides sharpness and depth; red onion offers a milder flavor.
Black Pepper & Dried Basil – Seasoning to elevate flavors; fresh herbs work wonders too.
Parmesan – For extra richness; pecorino or vegan cheese is great for a dairy-free version.
Pepperoni – Adds a spicy kick; chopped olives can make it vegetarian.

For the Dressing

Red Wine Vinegar – The base for the dressing; balsamic vinegar can add a touch of sweetness.
Olive Oil – Provides richness; try avocado oil for a unique flavor.
Garlic Powder – Adds aroma and complexity; fresh minced garlic intensifies the taste.
Brown Sugar – Balances acidity; substitute with honey or stevia for lower sugar.
Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste based on dietary needs.

For the Tortellini Version

Tri-Colored Tortellini – Optional for those who prefer carbs, adding delightful texture and flavor.

This Italian Sub Salad Two Ways offers a delicious twist on a beloved classic, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Italian Sub Salad Two Ways

Step 1: Prepare the Base
In a large mixing bowl, start by layering the shredded hearts of romaine as the crisp base of your Italian Sub Salad Two Ways. Add in sliced salami, provolone cheese, and marinated mini mozzarella balls for rich, savory flavors. Toss in diced cucumber, chopped red pepper, and mild pepper rings for a colorful, fresh crunch that beckons to be enjoyed.

Step 2: Season Generously
Sprinkle the white onion, black pepper, and dried basil evenly over the layered ingredients. This crucial step enhances the overall flavor profile of your Italian Sub Salad. Remember, the balance of spices is essential, so add salt to your taste. Stir gently to combine, ensuring each ingredient is kissed with seasoning for a delightful burst of flavor in every bite.

Step 3: Let It Chill
Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 4 hours, or overnight, if possible. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a refreshing and flavorful Italian Sub Salad. The crispness of the greens will remain intact, while the ingredients will mingle together, creating a harmonious taste that bursts with freshness.

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, garlic powder, brown sugar, and kosher salt until well combined. This zesty dressing will elevate your Italian Sub Salad Two Ways. If you’re opting for a low-carb version, ensure the dressing is light yet flavorful. Let the dressing chill in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to infuse further, ideally overnight.

Step 5: Serve with a flourish
When ready to serve, give the salad a gentle toss to redistribute the ingredients, releasing their delicious aromas. You can either dress the salad directly before serving or present the dressing on the side, allowing guests to customize their experience. For the tortellini version, simply toss cooked tri-colored tortellini into the salad for an added layer of delightful texture.

Step 6: Enjoy the Variations
Decide which version to indulge in—whether the low-carb creation or the hearty tortellini salad. Arrange the salads on a vibrant platter for an enticing presentation, showcasing the beautiful colors and textures. Each bite promises a delicious harmony of flavors reminiscent of traditional Italian subs, bringing the perfect touch of summer to your table.

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Make Ahead Options

These Italian Sub Salad Two Ways are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the salad components up to 24 hours in advance by slicing the vegetables and meats, which helps save time without sacrificing flavor. Simply layer the shredded romaine, salami, provolone, mini mozzarella, cucumber, red pepper, and onion in a large bowl and cover it tightly with plastic wrap to keep everything fresh. The dressing can also be made ahead—whisk together the ingredients and refrigerate overnight for a burst of flavor. When ready to serve, just give the salad a light toss with the dressing, and you’ll enjoy a delightful, restaurant-quality meal effortlessly!

Italian Sub Salad Two Ways Variations

Feel free to get creative and tailor this salad to your taste! Each suggestion adds a unique twist, making it your very own masterpiece.

Greens Galore: Substitute the romaine with arugula or spinach for a peppery kick and added nutrients.
Mediterranean Flair: Add sliced olives or artichoke hearts for an extra punch of flavor, turning it into a delightful Mediterranean dish.
Creamy Avocado: Incorporate diced avocado for a luscious texture and a dose of healthy fats that lovely wraps around each bite.
Cheeseboard Delight: Swap the provolone for a sharp cheddar or a goaty cheese for a new taste experience that excites the palate.
Roasted Red Peppers: For another sweet element, mix in roasted red peppers. Their silky texture and charred flavor will elevate your salad beautifully.
Zesty Kick: Add za’atar seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes to spice things up. Just a pinch brings a fiery boost to your dish!
Tortellini Twist: In the carb-friendly version, try switching up the tortellini flavors. Spinach feta or sundried tomato varieties can enhance the flavor profile wonderfully.
Herb Infusion: Enhance the dressing with fresh herbs like basil or oregano. They’ll invigorate the salad with bright garden notes!

For effortless pairings, include your Italian Sub Salad with a refreshing Golden Girl Salad or a delicious Baked Arancini Italian. Embrace these variations, and you’ll discover endless ways to savor this delightful meal!

What to Serve with Italian Sub Salad Two Ways

Elevate your meal with complementary dishes that will delight your taste buds and keep the summer vibes alive.

Garlic Bread: The crunchy, buttery goodness of garlic bread pairs wonderfully, making it a perfect accompaniment to soak up any dressing!
Grilled Veggies: Seasoned zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus bring smoky flavors and a touch of earthiness that balance the salad’s zest.
Caprese Skewers: These bite-sized delights add a fresh touch with creamy mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, echoing the Italian theme beautifully.
Italian Wine Spritzer: Light and refreshing, this drink complements the salad’s flavors while keeping your summer gathering cool and cheerful.
Mini Sliders: Juicy meat or veggie sliders add a heartiness to the mix, making it ideal for a backyard feast where everyone can indulge.
Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds a sweet contrast and a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of the savory salad.
Tiramisu Cups: For dessert, individual servings of this classic Italian treat provide a rich and creamy finish to your meal, keeping the Italian spirit alive.

Tips for the Best Italian Sub Salad

Chill to Enhance Flavor: Allow the Italian Sub Salad to rest in the fridge for at least 4 hours before serving. This helps blend and intensify the flavors beautifully.
Layer Wisely: For a visually appealing dish, layer your ingredients thoughtfully. Placing the darker ingredients at the bottom not only adds depth but also creates a striking presentation.
Customize Your Greens: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different leafy greens! Try arugula or spinach in place of romaine for a new spin on your salad base.
Fresh Herbs Matter: Using fresh herbs instead of dried can elevate your Italian Sub Salad. Consider adding chopped basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.
Dress Just Before Serving: To maintain the crispness of your salad, add the dressing right before serving. This prevents the greens from wilting and keeps every bite fresh and delicious.
Mix and Match Proteins: Feel free to mix different deli meats or cheeses based on your preferences. It’s all about making this Italian Sub Salad Two Ways truly your own!

How to Store and Freeze Italian Sub Salad

Fridge: Store leftover Italian Sub Salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days to keep the ingredients fresh and flavorful.

Dress Separately: If you plan to keep leftovers, store the dressing in a separate container to prevent the lettuce from becoming soggy.

Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for this salad, as the texture of fresh vegetables may suffer upon thawing.

Reheating: There is no need to reheat; this salad is best enjoyed cold. Simply toss before serving for optimal freshness.

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Italian Sub Salad Two Ways Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ingredients for my Italian Sub Salad?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, select fresh produce—look for crisp hearts of romaine without dark spots. Choose deli meats with rich colors like salami and pepperoni. If opting for cheese, go for smooth, creamy textures like provolone or mozzarella; they elevate the overall experience!

What’s the best way to store leftovers of this salad?
Very well! Store your Italian Sub Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just remember to keep the dressing separate to maintain the crispness of the greens. If you’ve dressed some of the salad, try to consume it within a day for best quality.

Can I freeze my Italian Sub Salad?
While I appreciate your desire to save some for later, freezing this salad isn’t recommended. The fresh veggies lose their delightful crunch and texture once thawed. Enjoy it fresh, and if you have extra ingredients, consider assembling smaller portions per meal!

What dietary options can I consider when making this salad?
You’re in luck! This Italian Sub Salad is quite versatile. For a low-carb version, focus on fresh vegetables and proteins like salami and provolone. If you want a heartier dish, the tortellini version adds whole grains. For vegetarian options, simply replace the meats with chopped olives or more veggies! Also, be cautious if anyone has dairy allergies; swap cheeses with vegan alternatives.

How do I make my dressing taste even better?
Absolutely! To enhance your dressing, let it sit in the fridge for at least an hour before using; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully! If you like a zesty kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Experimenting with fresh herbs will also elevate the salad’s overall flavor profile!