After a long day, rummaging through my pantry for something satisfying can feel like a chore. Let’s be honest: fast food is quick, but it’s rarely a comforting choice! Then I remembered a delightful “Sub in a Tub” recipe that I’d stumbled upon during one of those late-night kitchen adventures. Imagine layers of diced turkey, ham, and cheese, all nestled among crisp lettuce and tangy olives, creating a dish that’s not only a feast for the eyes but a time-saver for the busy cook.
In just 10 minutes, you can whip up this vibrant, flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner. It’s versatile enough to suit any taste, whether you’re hosting friends or indulging in a quiet night at home. Trust me, once you try this crowd-pleaser, you’ll find it hard to resist making it a staple in your meal rotation! Get ready to impress your taste buds with minimal effort—let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe!
Why You'll Love This Sub in a Tub
- This Sub in a Tub recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, taking just 10 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for those hectic days.
- The combination of savory turkey, ham, and cheese with fresh vegetables creates a burst of flavor that will satisfy your taste buds.
- Its versatility allows you to customize the ingredients to suit your preferences or to use up leftover ingredients in your fridge.
- Not only is it visually appealing with its vibrant colors, but it also makes for a delightful centerpiece when serving guests, ensuring it will be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Sub in a Tub Ingredients
• Ready to build your layers?
For the Base
- Diced turkey – a great source of protein that adds a savory twist.
- Diced ham – brings a touch of sweetness and depth to your meal.
- Diced cheese – choose your favorite for extra creaminess in your Sub in a Tub.
For the Freshness
- Chopped lettuce – adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the meats.
- Diced tomatoes – brings juiciness and a pop of color to the dish.
- Sliced olives – introduce a briny flavor that elevates your culinary creation.
For the Creamy Finish
- Mayonnaise – lends a smooth texture and binds all the ingredients together.
- Mustard – offers a tangy kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
To Taste
- Salt and pepper – essential for seasoning, elevating every bite to perfection.
How to Make Sub in a Tub
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss together the diced turkey, ham, cheese, chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sliced olives. Mix them gently until well combined, enjoying the vibrant colors.
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Add Condiments: Pour in the mayonnaise and mustard. Stir the mixture until everything is evenly coated, resulting in a creamy and luscious texture.
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Season to Taste: Sprinkle in salt and pepper, adjusting according to your preference. Taste the mixture and add more seasoning if needed for that perfect flavor balance.
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Spoon and Serve: Carefully spoon the mixture into a charming serving dish, making sure to layer it attractively. This colorful assembly is sure to catch everyone’s eye!
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Dig In! Enjoy your Sub in a Tub immediately, savoring every bite of this easy and delicious meal that’s full of flavor and joy.
Optional: Garnish with extra olives or a sprinkle of herbs for an added touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Sub in a Tub
Fridge: Store any leftover Sub in a Tub in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep the ingredients fresh while preserving their flavors.
Freezer: If you’d like to freeze the mixture, place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Note that the texture of the lettuce may change upon thawing, so it’s best to add it fresh after reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then stir and serve chilled for a refreshing dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Sub in a Tub are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prep the turkey, ham, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and olives up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. To assemble, just mix the ingredients with mayonnaise and mustard right before serving to ensure the veggies stay crisp and vibrant. If you prefer, you can even prepare the entire mixture up to 3 days ahead; just be sure to add salt and pepper right before serving to keep the flavors bright. This simple make-ahead approach allows you to enjoy a delightful meal with minimal effort on busy days!
Sub in a Tub Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this dish to suit your taste buds!
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Vegetarian: Swap the turkey and ham for diced cucumbers and bell peppers for a fresh, meatless option.
With vibrant colors and textures, this twist is perfect for a light warm-weather meal. -
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mix for a zesty flavor boost.
This little heat can awaken your palate, making every bite exciting! -
Creamy Avocado: Include diced avocado for a rich and creamy addition that enhances the taste.
Its buttery texture pairs beautifully with the crunch of fresh veggies. -
Herb-Infused: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro to elevate the flavors.
Just a handful can transform this dish into a fragrant and delightful experience. -
Crunchy Apples: Toss in diced apples for a sweet crunch that contrasts wonderfully with salty meats.
This surprising enhancement brings a refreshing twist that will intrigue your guests! -
Greek Style: Use feta cheese and Kalamata olives instead of regular cheese and olives for a Mediterranean flair.
This variation adds a tangy richness that harmonizes beautifully with the other ingredients. -
BBQ Flavor: Mix in some BBQ sauce along with the mayonnaise and mustard for a smoky twist.
This changes the flavor profile completely, bringing a lively BBQ vibe to your meal. -
Nuts for Crunch: Sprinkle in some toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans for an added layer of crunch and richness.
The unexpected crunch adds an element of surprise to every mouthful!
What to Serve with Sub in a Tub?
This flavorful dish offers endless possibilities for your next meal, making it a joy to create complementary sides!
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Crispy Potato Wedges: These golden wedges add a delightful crunch and pair beautifully with the creamy textures of your sub creation. Their savory flavor will have everyone reaching for seconds.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, they serve as an excellent contrast to the fresh ingredients in the Sub in a Tub. Bring them to the table warm for that perfect cozy vibe.
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Simple Green Salad: Toss together mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing side. The crispness of the salad balances the richness of the tub, keeping your meal light and satisfying.
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Fresh Fruit Platter: Bright fruits like strawberries, pineapple, and grapes add a sweet and tart contrast. Not only do they cleanse your palate, but they also bring a seasonal touch to your table.
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Chilled Lemonade: A glass of this refreshing drink can elevate your meal experience. Its citrusy zing cuts through the flavors and adds a delightful twist to your Sub in a Tub!
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Chocolate Mousse: Wrap up your meal with a touch of indulgence. The creamy richness of the mousse complements the dish, tempting dessert lovers to linger just a bit longer.
These pairings will not only create a complete dining experience but will also impress your family and friends!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To make your Sub in a Tub even more delightful, ensure you chop your ingredients evenly for a consistent texture and presentation.
- When mixing in the mayonnaise and mustard, consider using a spatula for a more thorough blend without over-mixing, which can make the ingredients mushy.
- Always taste the mixture before serving; adjusting salt and pepper at this stage allows you to tailor flavors to your preference.
- Finally, serve the dish immediately after preparation to maintain the freshness of the lettuce and tomatoes, ensuring a crispy texture.
Sub in a Tub Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for my Sub in a Tub?
Absolutely! When selecting ingredients, look for fresh vegetables with vibrant colors. The lettuce should be crisp and green, tomatoes should feel firm to the touch without dark spots, and olives should be smooth and shiny. For the meats, choose deli turkey and ham that are sliced fresh or packaged without preservatives for the best flavor.
How should I store leftover Sub in a Tub?
Very simply! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy this delicious meal later. Just make sure to keep the container sealed to maintain freshness, and try to avoid leaving it out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Can I freeze my Sub in a Tub mixture?
Yes, you can! To freeze, put the mixture in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion, as it will thicken. Your mixture will keep well for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight. The key is to add lettuce fresh after you thaw to keep that delightful crunch!
What should I do if my Sub in a Tub mixture seems too dry?
Oh no, but don’t worry! If you find your mixture a little dry, try adding a few more tablespoons of mayonnaise or mustard. Start with one tablespoon, mix well, and taste before adding more. You can also squeeze in a bit of lemon juice for extra moisture and a fresh zing if you’re looking to brighten up the flavor!
Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind?
Absolutely, especially if you’re serving guests! Since this recipe includes turkey, ham, and cheese, check for any allergies to these ingredients. If needed, you can make it pasta-friendly by substituting the meats with chickpeas or lentils. Always keep seasonings and mayonnaise allergy-friendly; you can use dairy-free alternatives if someone is lactose intolerant.
Equipment
- large bowl
Ingredients
Base
- 1 cup diced turkey a great source of protein that adds a savory twist.
- 1 cup diced ham brings a touch of sweetness and depth to your meal.
- 1 cup diced cheese choose your favorite for extra creaminess.
Freshness
- 2 cups chopped lettuce adds a refreshing crunch.
- 1 cup diced tomatoes brings juiciness and a pop of color.
- 1/2 cup sliced olives introduce a briny flavor.
Creamy Finish
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise lends a smooth texture.
- 2 tablespoons mustard offers a tangy kick.
To Taste
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, toss together the diced turkey, ham, cheese, chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sliced olives.
- Pour in the mayonnaise and mustard. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Sprinkle in salt and pepper, adjusting according to your taste.
- Spoon the mixture into a charming serving dish, layering attractively.
- Enjoy your Sub in a Tub immediately.
