Italian Sub Salad

 Italian Sub Salad is a deconstructed version of the classic Italian sub sandwich, turned into a vibrant and refreshing salad. It combines all the savory, tangy flavors of a sub, including deli meats, cheese, olives, and pickles, with a zesty dressing. Perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or a side dish, this salad is easy to prepare and bursting with flavor.

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

4 cups mixed greens (such as romaine, arugula, or spinach)

1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cucumber, sliced

1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

1/2 cup green olives or Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

1/2 cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced

1/2 cup diced mozzarella cheese (or provolone)

1/4 cup roasted red peppers, sliced (optional)

1/2 cup deli meats, such as salami, pepperoni, and ham, sliced into strips

1/4 cup pickles, sliced (optional, for extra tang)

For the Dressing:

3 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp red wine vinegar

1 tsp Dijon mustard

1/2 tsp dried oregano

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:

Wash and chop the mixed greens, and place them in a large salad bowl.

Halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the cucumber and red onion, and prepare the olives, pepperoncini, mozzarella, roasted red peppers, deli meats, and pickles.

2. Make the Dressing:

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

3. Assemble the Salad:

Add the mixed greens to the large salad bowl.

Top with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, pepperoncini, mozzarella, roasted red peppers, deli meats, and pickles (if using).

4. Dress the Salad:

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are coated with the dressing.

5. Serve:

Serve immediately as a fresh, hearty meal, or refrigerate for up to a few hours before serving. You can also serve it with crusty bread or garlic bread on the side.

Tips:

Add extra protein: For a heartier salad, add grilled chicken, turkey, or more deli meats like turkey or bologna.

Customize: Feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have or prefer, such as adding olives, artichokes, or other Italian meats like capicola.

Make it vegetarian: Skip the deli meats and add more cheese, roasted vegetables, or chickpeas for extra protein.

This Italian Sub Salad is a delicious and satisfying dish that gives you all the classic flavors of an Italian sub in a fresh and healthy way!