This Italian Sub Sandwich is a hearty, flavor-packed meal perfect for lunch, picnics, or casual dinners.
Layers of lean roasted turkey, savory Genoa salami, and pepperoni combine with creamy Provolone cheese and fresh vegetables for a satisfying bite every time.
High in protein and fiber while offering healthy fats from olive oil, it’s a balanced option that keeps you full and energized.
Quick to assemble, fully customizable, and ideal for meal prep, this sandwich makes weekday lunches or weekend gatherings effortless and delicious.
Classic Italian Sub Sandwich
Equipment
- 1 serrated knife
- 1 cutting board
- 1 large loaf pan or plate for assembly
- 1 mixing bowl for vegetables
- 1 spoon for drizzling oil and vinegar
Ingredients
- 1 large loaf Italian bread
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 4 oz Genoa salami
- 4 oz pepperoni
- 8 oz roasted turkey breast
- 6 oz Provolone cheese
- 2 cups chopped iceberg lettuce
- 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1/4 cup pickled sliced banana peppers pepperoncini
- 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives
- 3 –4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread Base: Start by placing your large Italian loaf on a cutting board. Using a serrated knife, carefully slice the loaf in half lengthwise. Hold the bread steady as you saw slowly to avoid squishing it. Once split, gently scoop out a portion of the soft interior from the top half. This creates space for all the fillings without overstuffing, helping the sandwich hold together while eating. Save the scooped-out bread to make breadcrumbs or croutons later.
- Spread the Mayonnaise Layer: Take the bottom half of the loaf and spread 1/3 cup of mayonnaise evenly over the surface. The mayonnaise adds moisture and richness, acting as a flavorful base that complements both the meats and vegetables. Use a spatula or butter knife to create a smooth, even layer that reaches all edges of the bread.
- Layer the Meats: Begin layering the cured and cooked meats over the mayonnaise. Start with the Genoa salami (4 ounces), arranging slices so they slightly overlap for consistent flavor in each bite. Next, layer 4 ounces of pepperoni, followed by 8 ounces of thinly sliced roasted turkey breast. The combination ofcured and lean meats gives the sandwich a balanced, savory profile. Adjust the order according to preference, but layering cured meats first helps support the cheese and vegetables.
- Add the Cheese Layer: Top the meats with 6 ounces of Provolone cheese. Lay the slices evenly to cover the surface of the sandwich. Provolone melts slightly from the warmth of the bread and meats, binding the layers together. This creates a creamy texture and adds depth to the flavor of every bite.
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a separate bowl, chop 2 cups of iceberg lettuce, 1/2 cup of tomatoes, 1/4 cup of banana peppers, and 1/4 cup of Kalamata olives. Aim for uniform, bite-sized pieces so that every sandwich portion gets a balanced mix of vegetables. The fresh vegetables add crunch, color, and a burst of tangy flavor, balancing the richness of the meats and cheese.
- Assemble the Vegetable Top Layer: Place the scooped-out top half of the loaf on your workspace. Add a bed of chopped lettuce first, spreading it evenly. Layer the tomatoes, banana peppers, and olives on top. Drizzle 3–4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar over the vegetables. Sprinkle 2 teaspoons of dried Italian seasoning evenly. The oil and vinegar dress the vegetables, enhancing their natural flavors while seasoning every bite.
- Combine the Sandwich Halves: Carefully bring the two halves of the loaf together, aligning them so the bottom layer of meats and cheese meets the top layer of dressed vegetables.Press lightly along the length of the sandwich to ensure it stays intact. Avoid pressing too hard, which can cause the sandwich to become soggy or the fillings to spill out.
- Cut into Portions: Using a serrated knife, slice the assembled sandwich into six even portions. Saw gently with a back-and-forth motion to maintain the shape and integrity of the layers. Cutting the sandwich this way ensures consistent portion sizes for serving or storing.
- Serve or Store: Serve immediately for a fresh, crunchy experience. If not eating right away, wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap or parchment paper and store in the refrigerator. The sandwich keeps well for 2–3 days. For longer storage, consider assembling the meat and cheese layers in advance and adding the vegetables just before serving to prevent sogginess.
- Optional Flavor Enhancements: For extra flavor, consider adding sliced red onions, roasted red peppers, or a dash of hot sauce to the vegetables. You can also lightly toast the bread before assembling for added crunch. Experimenting with your favorite Italian deli meats or cheeses can customize the sandwich to suit your taste.
Notes
- Use a fresh, crusty Italian loaf for the best texture and flavor.
- Scoop out only enough bread to accommodate fillings without compromising structure.
- Adjust meats and cheese to taste or swap with your favorite deli selections.
- Dress the vegetables just before assembling to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
- This sandwich can be customized with additional veggies like cucumbers, roasted peppers, or onions.
- Wrap leftovers tightly to maintain freshness and crunch.
Chef’s Secrets for Perfect Sandwich Layers
To achieve the ideal Italian sub, pay attention to layering order and ingredient preparation.
Start with meats on the bottom to anchor the sandwich, followed by cheese to help bind the layers together.
Lightly toss vegetables in olive oil, vinegar, and seasoning just before assembling to maintain freshness and crunch.
3Using a serrated knife ensures clean slices without squashing the bread.
For an extra touch, consider slightly toasting the loaf before assembly—it adds a subtle warmth and enhances the overall flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Maximum Enjoyment
This Italian sub shines when served fresh alongside simple sides.
Pair with crunchy pickles, a side of baked chips, or a small green salad for a balanced meal.
For gatherings or picnics, slice the sandwich into individual portions to make serving easy and visually appealing.
Adding a wedge of lemon or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the taste.
It also works well as a hearty, protein-packed lunch option for busy weekdays or as a flavorful centerpiece for casual dinner tables.
Storage Tips to Keep Fresh
If you’re not serving immediately, wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or parchment paper and store it in the refrigerator.
Properly wrapped, the sandwich can remain fresh for 2–3 days.
For longer storage, consider storing the meats and cheese separately from the vegetables to prevent sogginess, assembling just before serving.
When reheating, avoid the microwave if possible—use a preheated oven or sandwich press to maintain the crisp texture of the bread and enhance the flavors of the ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! While Italian bread is traditional, you can use ciabatta, French baguette, or wholegrain loaves. Just ensure the bread is sturdy enough to hold all fillings without collapsing.
2. Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the meats with grilled vegetables, roasted peppers, marinated tofu, or plant-based deli slices. Layer with cheese and fresh vegetables for a hearty, vegetarian-friendly alternative.
3. How can I prevent the sandwich from getting soggy?
The key is to dress vegetables just before assembly and avoid over-soaking the bread. You can also layer meats and cheese first, which creates a moisture barrier between the bread and wet ingredients.
4. What are some flavor variations I can try?
Try adding roasted red peppers, sliced cucumbers, fresh basil, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. You can also switch Provolone for mozzarella, Swiss, or cheddar for different flavor profiles.
5. Can I prepare this sandwich for meal prep?
Yes! Prepare the meats and cheese ahead of time and store vegetables separately. Assemble just before eating to maintain freshness. Wrap individual portions tightly for grab-and-go lunches or picnics.
