Have you ever thought about turning your favorite sub sandwich into a pasta salad? It’s a game-changer for meal prep or those days you want something fresh yet hearty. I’ve been experimenting with this idea, swapping bread for pasta and packing in all the flavors of a loaded sub. The result is a dish that’s customizable, portable, and surprisingly satisfying. Stick around to see how this simple twist can transform your lunch game.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Sub In A Tub Salad With Pasta is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep time make this recipe a go-to option for busy days.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite proteins, vegetables, and dressings to suit your taste.
- Perfect for On-the-Go: Packed in a tub, it’s ideal for lunches, picnics, or any outdoor adventure.
Recipe
This Sub In A Tub Salad With Pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the convenience of a sandwich with the freshness of a salad, all tossed with your favorite pasta. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner, offering a satisfying mix of textures and flavors.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced (optional)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing (or your preferred dressing)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and let it cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken (if using), cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, and lettuce.
- Pour the Italian dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheese (if desired) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.
Notes:
- Add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences, such as bell peppers, avocado, or pepperoni.
- For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and add chickpeas or tofu.
Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving (varies based on ingredients)
- Cuisine: American
Equipment
When preparing a Sub in a Tub Salad with Pasta, having the right equipment guarantees efficiency and ease. Gather the following essentials to streamline your cooking process.
- Large mixing bowl
- Colander or strainer
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Tongs or a pasta spoon
- Serving plates or bowls
Nutrition
This Sub In A Tub Salad with Pasta is a nutritious and balanced meal option. Packed with essential nutrients, it offers a blend of proteins, carbs, and healthy fats.
- High in fiber from fresh vegetables and whole-grain pasta.
- Rich in protein from turkey, ham, and salami.
- Provides essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, iron, and potassium.
- Contains healthy fats from olive oil and cheese.
- Low in added sugars, making it a wholesome choice for a satisfying meal.
What to Serve With This Recipe
I love pairing my Sub In A Tub Salad with fresh garlic bread for a satisfying crunch, and a crisp Caesar salad adds a invigorating twist. If I’m craving something heartier, baked meatball subs or a tangy coleslaw dish always hit the spot. On cooler days, warm tomato soup makes the meal feel cozy and complete.
Fresh Garlic Bread
Nothing beats the aroma of fresh garlic bread baking in the oven, especially when it’s served alongside a hearty bowl of Sub In A Tub Salad with Pasta. I love slathering a crusty loaf with garlic butter, then sprinkling it with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra flavor. It’s simple, satisfying, and pairs perfectly with the salad’s bold tastes. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!
Crisp Caesar Salad
A crisp Caesar salad can be the perfect side to elevate your meal, especially when you’re looking for something fresh and flavorful. I love the Benefits of Caesar—crunchy romaine, savory Parmesan, and those garlicky croutons. Dressing varieties let you customize, from classic anchovy-rich to creamy avocado. It’s light but satisfying, letting your main dish shine while adding a burst of flavor. Trust me, it’s a game-changer.
Baked Meatball Subs
Baked meatball subs are a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners or game-day gatherings. I love experimenting with meatball variations—beef, turkey, or even plant-based—to suit my mood. Topping the sandwich with melted cheese, marinara, and fresh herbs takes it to the next level. Feel free to add pickled veggies or a drizzle of spicy mayo for extra flair. It’s all about making it your way.
Tangy Coleslaw Dish
When I’m looking for a side dish that’s both crunchy and revitalizing, tangy coleslaw always comes to mind. I love how it balances creamy and zesty flavors, and it’s so versatile. You can play with flavor variations, like adding apple cider vinegar or a hint of honey. If you’re out of cabbage, ingredient substitutes like shredded kale or broccoli slaw work just as well. It’s a dish that lets you get creative!
Warm Tomato Soup
While tangy coleslaw is my go-to for a revitalizing crunch, sometimes I crave something warm and comforting, like a bowl of tomato soup. Tracing its soup origins back to the 1800s, this classic pairs beautifully with hearty salads. I love experimenting with tomato varieties, from juicy heirlooms to sweet cherries, to create a rich, velvety blend that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta?
I’d absolutely use gluten-free pasta if I wanted to! There are so many gluten-free options out there, and pasta alternatives like rice or legume-based pastas are perfect for keeping meals free of gluten while staying delicious.
How Long Does It Stay Fresh in the Fridge?
I’ve wondered how long it’ll stay fresh in the fridge, and here’s the secret: follow freshness tips like sealing it tight and storing it cold. With proper storage guidelines, it’ll last up to three days.
Can I Add Meat to This Salad?
Absolutely, I can add meat to this salad! Adding protein like grilled chicken, turkey, or even bacon as meat options boosts flavor and keeps it hearty. It’s my way of making it my own.
Is There a Substitute for Mayonnaise?
“Necessity is the mother of invention,” so if I avoid mayo, I’ve got yogurt alternatives like Greek yogurt or sour cream. For vegan options, I’d try avocado, tahini, or cashew cream—choices that let me craft freely!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
I’ve found I can make this recipe ahead of time with solid preparation tips. For storage advice, I’d keep it in an airtight container in the fridge, ensuring it stays fresh and freeing up my day.
