Sub in a Tub – All the Flavor, None of the Bread 🥬🥓🧀
Think of this recipe as your favorite deli sub — but stripped of the bread and piled high in a bowl. This Sub in a Tub is crunchy, savory, and dressed just like a proper hoagie: oil, vinegar, oregano, and all. Whether you’re eating low-carb, gluten-free, or just love a good chopped salad with serious deli vibes, this one’s for you.
Why I Love This Recipe
I first made this Sub in a Tub on a whim — craving a sandwich but trying to skip the bread. The result? A ridiculously satisfying salad-bowl hybrid that eats like a full meal. It’s stacked with cold cuts, creamy avocado, pickled bites, and a drizzle of Italian-style dressing.
Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep and totally customizable. It’s kind of like Sheet Pan Quesadillas — easy to make in bulk and just as addictive.
Ingredients
- 4 slices provolone cheese, sliced into strips
- 4 slices deli ham, chopped
- ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded lettuce (iceberg or romaine)
- ½ avocado, diced
- ¼ cup banana peppers, sliced
- ¼ cup pickles, sliced
- 1 small tomato, chopped or sliced (layered at the bottom)
Dressing:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- Pinch of oregano
- Salt & pepper to taste
Swaps & Variations
- Meat: Try turkey, salami, roast beef, or a combo for a true Italian-style bowl.
- Cheese: Mozzarella, cheddar, or a dairy-free version works too.
- Add-ons: Olives, cucumbers, jalapeños, or chopped hard-boiled eggs.
- Low-fat option: Swap in lean protein and reduce the oil to 1 tsp.
How to Make a Sub in a Tub
1️⃣ Layer the Base:
Start with the tomato slices at the bottom of your bowl to help catch all the dressing. Pile on the shredded lettuce, creating a fluffy bed.
2️⃣ Add the Good Stuff:
Top the lettuce with:
- Sliced ham and provolone
- Thinly sliced onion
- Chopped avocado
- Sliced banana peppers and pickles
You can arrange in sections or toss everything together for a chopped salad style.
3️⃣ Dress It Right:
Drizzle on olive oil and red wine vinegar, then sprinkle with oregano, salt, and black pepper. Want extra flavor? Add a tiny squeeze of Dijon mustard or a splash of Italian dressing.
4️⃣ Serve:
Enjoy immediately, or pack it in a container for a grab-and-go lunch. It travels well — just keep dressing on the side if making ahead.
Tips for Success
- Use deli-fresh ingredients — the flavor difference is huge.
- Want extra crunch? Toss in some pepperoncini or thinly sliced cucumbers.
- Chop your ingredients small for a more “forkable” salad experience.
- Double the batch for a meal prep win — store undressed and add vinegar/oil when ready.
Pairing Suggestions
This bowl is rich and savory, so pair it with something light or crunchy:
- A glass of iced lemon water or Blueberry Lemonade for refreshment.
- Follow up with a comforting main like Easy Turkey Wings or go full meal-prep mode with a One-Pan Breakfast Bake.
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container without dressing for up to 2 days.
- Add dressing right before serving to avoid soggy lettuce.
- If using avocado, squeeze with lemon juice to prevent browning.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Try this Light Tangy Chicken Salad for another healthy, high-flavor lunch.
- Need a quick dinner fix? This Dorito Casserole is cheesy, crunchy, and weeknight ready.
Final Thoughts
This Sub in a Tub is proof that you don’t need bread to satisfy a sandwich craving. It’s crisp, creamy, tangy, and absolutely piled with flavor. Whether you’re keto, gluten-free, or just sandwich-curious, give this deli-style salad bowl a try.
Tried it? Let us know how you build your version, and follow for more flavor-packed no-fuss meal ideas!
Leave a Reply