If you’re looking for a low-carb alternative to a classic sub sandwich, look no further than the “sub in a tub” recipe. This recipe involves all the ingredients of a traditional sub sandwich, but instead of being served on bread, it’s served in a bowl or container. This makes it the perfect option for those following a keto or low-carb diet, or for anyone looking for a healthier lunch or dinner option.
One of the great things about the sub in a tub recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile. You can customize it to your liking by choosing your favorite meats, cheeses, vegetables, and sauces. Some popular options include ham, turkey, chicken, lettuce, cheese, and various sauces like mayo, mustard, or Italian dressing. The possibilities are endless, so you can switch it up and never get bored. Plus, it’s an easy meal prep option that you can make ahead of time and take with you on-the-go.
Recipe Origins
Historical Background
The “Sub in a Tub” recipe is a popular low-carb alternative to the traditional sub sandwich. The recipe involves creating a sub sandwich, but instead of putting it inside a bread roll, you put the ingredients in a plastic container or a bowl. This recipe has been around for a while, and it is believed to have originated in the United States.
Popularity and Variations
The “Sub in a Tub” recipe has gained popularity in recent years, especially among people who are following a low-carb or keto diet. The recipe is easy to make, and it can be customized to suit individual tastes. There are many variations of the “Sub in a Tub” recipe, and different people use different ingredients to make it.
One popular variation is the “Italian Sub in a Tub,” which involves using Italian meats and cheeses to create a delicious and satisfying meal. Another variation is the “Roast Beef and Swiss Sub in a Tub,” which uses roast beef and Swiss cheese to create a hearty and flavorful dish.
Overall, the “Sub in a Tub” recipe is a great option for people who are looking for a low-carb alternative to the traditional sub sandwich. It is easy to make, customizable, and delicious, making it a great option for lunch or dinner.
Essential Ingredients
When it comes to making a delicious sub in a tub, there are a few essential ingredients that you simply can’t do without. Here are the key ingredients you need to create a tasty and satisfying sub in a tub recipe.
Meats and Alternates
The meats and alternates you choose for your sub in a tub will largely depend on your personal preferences and dietary restrictions. If you’re a meat lover, you might opt for classic deli meats like turkey, roast beef, and ham. If you’re following a plant-based diet, you can use alternative protein sources like tofu, tempeh, or seitan.
Vegetables and Toppings
Vegetables and toppings are what give your sub in a tub its flavor and texture. Some classic toppings include lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and pickles. You can also add some heat with jalapenos or banana peppers, or add some sweetness with roasted red peppers. Don’t forget to add some crunch with toppings like cucumber or shredded carrots.
Bread Choices
While traditional sub sandwiches are made with bread, sub in a tub recipes are typically breadless. However, you can still add some texture and flavor with toppings like croutons or nuts. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, you can also use lettuce leaves or cabbage leaves as a base for your sub in a tub.
No matter what ingredients you choose, the key to a delicious sub in a tub is to layer your ingredients carefully and thoughtfully. Start with your base (meat or alternate), then add your vegetables and toppings, and finish with your sauces or dressings. With a little creativity and experimentation, you can create a sub in a tub recipe that’s both healthy and satisfying.
Step-by-Step Preparation
Preparing a Sub in a Tub is a convenient and easy way to have a delicious and healthy lunch ready to go. Here are the steps to follow for a perfect Sub in a Tub.
Meat and Vegetable Preparation
Start by preparing the ingredients for your Sub in a Tub. Thinly slice the meats, such as roast beef, turkey, ham, and salami, and set them aside. Then, slice the vegetables, including lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers, and place them in separate bowls.
If you prefer grilled vegetables, you can grill zucchini, eggplant, peppers, and onions, and add them to your Sub in a Tub. You can also add cheese, such as provolone, cheddar, or feta, to your Sub in a Tub.
Assembling the Sub in a Tub
Once you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to assemble your Sub in a Tub. Start with a layer of lettuce at the bottom of the container, followed by a layer of sliced meat. Add your favorite vegetables on top of the meat, such as tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers.
Next, add a layer of cheese, if desired, and drizzle with your favorite dressing, such as olive oil and red wine vinegar. You can also add salt, pepper, and oregano to taste.
Repeat the layers until you reach the top of the container, making sure to leave space for the dressing. Finally, seal the container and refrigerate until ready to eat.
By following these simple steps, you can make a delicious and healthy Sub in a Tub for lunch. It’s a convenient and easy way to enjoy a tasty meal on the go.
Serving Suggestions
Accompaniments
When it comes to serving sub in a tub, there are a few accompaniments you can consider to elevate your meal. Here are some suggestions:
- Chips: A bag of your favorite chips can be a great addition to your meal. They can add a satisfying crunch and complement the flavors of your sub in a tub.
- Pickles: Pickles can be a refreshing addition to your meal. They can provide a contrast to the flavors and textures of your sub in a tub.
- Soup: If you’re looking for something warm and comforting, a bowl of soup can be a great accompaniment to your sub in a tub. You can choose a soup that complements the flavors of your sub in a tub.
Presentation Tips
Presentation is key when it comes to serving sub in a tub. Here are some tips to help you present your sub in a tub beautifully:
- Layer your ingredients: When assembling your sub in a tub, make sure to layer your ingredients carefully. This will ensure that each bite has a good balance of flavors and textures.
- Use colorful ingredients: Adding colorful ingredients to your sub in a tub can make it look more appealing. Consider using a variety of vegetables to add color and flavor to your meal.
- Garnish with herbs: Adding herbs to your sub in a tub can add a pop of flavor and color. Consider garnishing your sub in a tub with fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or cilantro.
By following these serving suggestions and presentation tips, you can make your sub in a tub meal more enjoyable and satisfying.
Nutritional Information
When it comes to following a specific diet, knowing the nutritional information of the food you eat is essential. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for a sub in a tub recipe:
Calories
The number of calories in a sub in a tub recipe can vary depending on the ingredients used. Generally, a sub in a tub recipe contains between 400-800 calories. However, if you are on a low-calorie diet, you can adjust the recipe to reduce the number of calories.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are an essential source of energy for the body. However, if you are on a low-carb diet, you need to be careful about the number of carbs you consume. A typical sub in a tub recipe contains between 10-20 grams of carbs. You can reduce the number of carbs by using low-carb vegetables and meats.
Protein
Protein is essential for building and repairing muscles, and it also keeps you feeling full for longer. A typical sub in a tub recipe contains between 20-30 grams of protein, depending on the ingredients used.
Fat
Fat is an essential macronutrient that provides energy, insulation, and helps the body absorb vitamins. A typical sub in a tub recipe contains between 20-40 grams of fat, depending on the ingredients used.
Overall, a sub in a tub recipe can be a healthy and nutritious meal option, especially if you use high-quality ingredients and adjust the recipe to fit your dietary needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make a low-carb sub in a tub without bread?
Making a low-carb sub in a tub without bread is easy and delicious. You can use lettuce leaves, cabbage leaves, or even zucchini noodles as a base. Add your favorite meats, cheeses, and vegetables, and top it off with a delicious dressing.
What ingredients are needed for a classic Italian sub in a tub?
A classic Italian sub in a tub typically includes ham, salami, pepperoni, provolone cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and banana peppers. You can also add olives, pickles, and other vegetables of your choice.
Can you provide a simple step-by-step sub in a tub recipe?
Sure! Here’s a simple sub in a tub recipe that you can try at home:
- Choose your base: lettuce leaves, cabbage leaves, or zucchini noodles.
- Add your meats and cheeses: ham, turkey, roast beef, or your favorite deli meats, along with provolone, Swiss, or other cheeses.
- Add your vegetables: lettuce, tomatoes, onions, banana peppers, olives, pickles, or any other vegetables you like.
- Top it off with a dressing of your choice: Italian dressing, ranch dressing, or any other dressing you prefer.
What dressings are recommended for a sub in a tub?
The dressing you choose for your sub in a tub will depend on your personal preference. Some popular options include Italian dressing, ranch dressing, balsamic vinaigrette, or a simple olive oil and vinegar dressing.
How do I replicate Jersey Mike’s sub in a tub at home?
To replicate Jersey Mike’s sub in a tub at home, thinly slice iceberg lettuce, tomatoes, and red onions, and add them to a bowl. Arrange provolone and meats so you can slice them into pinwheels. Add the meats and cheese to the bowl, and top it off with olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
What are the nutritional values of a typical sub in a tub?
The nutritional values of a sub in a tub will depend on the ingredients you use. However, a typical sub in a tub with lettuce, turkey, ham, provolone cheese, and Italian dressing will contain around 300-400 calories, 20-30 grams of protein, and 5-10 grams of carbohydrates.