Sub in a Tub

“Sub in a Tub” is a low-carb, bread-free take on a classic sub, loaded with deli meats, fresh veggies, and cheese. Pair it with homemade vinaigrette or ranch for a quick, satisfying meal or snack!

If you’re looking for a lighter, low-carb twist on your favorite deli sandwich, this “Sub in a Tub” recipe is just the thing! All the classic flavors of a sub—tender deli meat, fresh veggies, and savory cheese—are piled high in a bowl with a choice of homemade vinaigrette or creamy ranch dressing. It’s a great option when you’re craving a sub but want to skip the bread, keeping the meal satisfying yet light.

This recipe is also endlessly customizable, letting you switch up the meats, veggies, and toppings to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand. It’s perfect for meal prep, too—just layer the ingredients in a mason jar or lunch container and add the dressing when you’re ready to dig in. And, with two homemade dressing options included, you can enjoy a classic tangy vinaigrette or a creamy, herb-infused ranch to bring it all together.

Serve your “Sub in a Tub” with a slice of crusty bread or a handful of crackers on the side if you’d like a bit of crunch. It’s ideal for lunch, a light dinner, or even as a filling snack, delivering all the flavors of a deli sub in a fresh, versatile way.

What You’ll Need to Make Sub in a Tub

Ingredients

• 2 cups mixed greens

Fillings

• deli meat (diced ham or turkey)
• grape tomatoes
• mini cucumbers
• shredded cheese (provolone, mozzarella, or cheddar)

Toppings

• sliced black olives
• red onion
• herbs (parsley or basil)

Classic Vinaigrette Dressing

• olive oil
• vinegar (balsamic, red wine, or apple cider vinegar work well.. I used balsamic)
• Dijon mustard
• maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
• garlic
• Salt and pepper to taste

Ranch Dressing

• mayonnaise
• buttermilk (or regular milk with 1 tablespoon vinegar added)
• dried dill weed
• dried parsley
• garlic powder
• onion powder
• salt
• black pepper
• Optional: A squeeze of lemon juice for extra tang (I didn’t use this, it’s a preference thing)

How to Make Sub in a Tub

In a large bowl or individual serving containers, layer the mixed greens as the base.

Layer the sliced deli meats over greens.

Add diced vegetables, shredded cheese, sliced olives, red onion, and any fresh herbs you’d like.

Mason Jar Classic Vinaigrette Dressing

In a clean mason jar, add the olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup (if using), minced garlic (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Seal the jar tightly with the lid and shake vigorously until all the ingredients are well combined and emulsified.

Open the jar and taste the dressing. Adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or sweetener to your liking. Keep the dressing in the refrigerator.

The vinaigrette should stay fresh for about a week. Just give it a good shake before using, as the ingredients may separate over time.

Mason Jar Ranch Dressing

In a clean mason jar, add the mayonnaise, buttermilk, dill weed, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

Seal the jar tightly with the lid and shake vigorously until all the ingredients are well combined and smooth.

Open the jar and taste the dressing. You can add more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice if you’d like. 

Keep the dressing in the refrigerator for up to a week. Shake well before each use, as it may separate over time.

Pour the either dressing over the Sub in a Tub ingredients when you are ready to eat! Serve with some crusty bread or crackers on the side if you want a bit of crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sub in a Tub:

Can I use any type of deli meat?

Yes! Ham, turkey, roast beef, or salami all work well. Mix and match based on your preference or what you have on hand.

What other veggies can I add?

Feel free to add bell peppers, shredded carrots, avocado, or radishes for extra crunch and flavor.

How long does it keep in the fridge?

Assembled “Sub in a Tub” (without dressing) can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Add dressing just before serving to keep it fresh.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Simply skip the cheese or substitute with a dairy-free cheese option, and use a dairy-free dressing.

How can I make this meal more filling?

Add boiled eggs, chickpeas, or avocado for extra protein and healthy fats. You can also serve it with a side of crackers or crusty bread if you’re not avoiding carbs.

Is there a low-calorie dressing option?

Both dressings can be lightened up by using less oil in the vinaigrette or low-fat yogurt in the ranch dressing.

How do I store the homemade dressings?

Both dressings can be stored in mason jars in the refrigerator for up to a week. Shake well before each use, as they may separate.

Can I use store-bought dressing instead?

Of course! Use any dressing you enjoy to keep things even simpler.

More Low-Carb Recipes You’ll Love

• Low Carb Lasagna Stuffed Chicken
• Low Carb Broccoli Cauliflower Salad
• Low Carb Baked Zucchini Fries
• Low Carb Cauliflower Buffalo Baked Bites