Italian Sub
A quintessential Italian-American deli classic, this sub is generously stacked with layers of thinly sliced cured meats like Genoa salami, spicy capicola, and mortadella. Sharp provolone cheese, crisp shredded lettuce, fresh tomato, and zesty red onion provide the perfect balance, all brought together on a crusty hoagie roll with a tangy red wine vinaigrette.
For 4 servings
4 steps.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Vinaigrette and Bread
- b.In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- c.Slice the hoagie rolls lengthwise, cutting about three-quarters of the way through but leaving one side connected to act as a hinge.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Layer the Sandwich
- b.Open each roll and lightly drizzle the inside of both top and bottom halves with the vinaigrette. This seasons the bread directly.
- c.Place 2 slices of provolone cheese on the bottom half of each roll, slightly overlapping them. The cheese acts as a barrier to prevent the bread from getting soggy.
- d.Artfully arrange the meats on top of the cheese. Fold or ruffle the slices of Genoa salami, spicy capicola, and mortadella to create texture and volume. Divide the meats evenly among the four subs.
- e.Layer the thinly sliced tomatoes and red onions over the meats.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Add Toppings and Finish
- b.Pile a generous amount of finely shredded iceberg lettuce on top of the onions and tomatoes.
- c.If using, scatter the sliced pepperoncini over the lettuce.
- d.Give the vinaigrette one last whisk and drizzle the remaining amount over the fillings.
- e.Close the sandwich firmly. For the best flavor fusion, wrap each sub tightly in parchment or butcher paper and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes at room temperature. This step compresses the sandwich and allows the dressing to soak in slightly.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Serve
- b.Unwrap the subs, slice them in half on a diagonal with a serrated knife, and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For authentic deli-style results, ask your deli counter to slice the meats and cheese paper-thin.
- 2A high-quality, crusty roll is non-negotiable. It provides the necessary structure to hold all the fillings without falling apart.
- 3Soaking the thinly sliced red onions in cold water for 10 minutes before adding them to the sub can mellow their sharp bite.
- 4Don't skip the resting step. Wrapping the sub tightly and letting it sit allows the flavors to meld together perfectly.
- 5To prevent a soggy sandwich, ensure your lettuce is completely dry and apply the dressing judiciously.
Adapt it for your goals.
Make it a 'Grinder'
After assembling the sandwich but before adding the lettuce and tomato, place the open-faced sub on a baking sheet and toast in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden. Then add the cold veggies and serve.
Different Meats & CheesesDifferent Meats & Cheeses
Swap the meats with prosciutto, soppressata, or deli ham. For cheese, try fresh mozzarella or a mild provolone.
Add a SpreadAdd a Spread
For extra flavor and moisture, add a thin layer of mayonnaise, pesto, or a spicy giardiniera relish to the bread.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
The combination of multiple cured meats and provolone cheese provides a high amount of protein, which is crucial for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and promoting satiety.
Rich in B Vitamins
Pork products like salami and capicola are good sources of B vitamins, especially B1 (thiamine) and B12. These vitamins are essential for energy metabolism and maintaining a healthy nervous system.
Contains Healthy Fats
The extra virgin olive oil used in the vinaigrette is a great source of monounsaturated fats, which are known to support heart health by helping to reduce bad cholesterol levels.
Provides Antioxidants
Tomatoes contribute lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. The oregano and red wine vinegar also contain beneficial plant compounds.
Frequently asked questions
A single Italian Sub made according to this recipe contains approximately 850-1000 calories. The exact number can vary based on the specific brands of meats, cheese, and the size of the hoagie roll.