Italian Sub Roll-Up {grain-free} Recipe

If you’re ready for a flavorful, fuss-free twist on the classic Italian sandwich, my Italian Sub Roll-Up {grain-free} is about to become your new obsession! All the zesty meats, creamy cheese, crisp lettuce, and tangy toppings you crave, but bundled into a delightfully portable, totally grain-free package. Whether you’re packing lunch, feeding a crowd, or snacking on the go, this dish delivers bold Italian deli vibes without a crumb of bread in sight—totally satisfying, protein-packed, and endlessly customizable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is a breeze, and each brings its own delicious magic to the Italian Sub Roll-Up {grain-free}. From the savory cured meats to the fresh crunch of lettuce and the pop of tangy peppers—every element plays a part in making these roll-ups truly irresistible. Here’s what you need and why you’ll love it:

• Genoa Salami: The robust, garlicky flavor of Genoa salami forms the perfect foundation—look for large, round slices to anchor your roll-up.
• Mortadella: This classic Italian cold cut adds creamy, buttery richness that beautifully balances the bolder meats.
• Sopressata: Sopressata brings a peppery, hearty kick that elevates the whole lineup—don’t skip it if you want an authentic sub flavor.
• Pepperoni: A spicy, smoky staple that adds zesty punch and a familiar Italian deli vibe.
• Provolone Cheese: Mild, melty provolone ties everything together; skip it for a dairy-free version—no flavor lost!
• Paleo Lime Mayo or Avocado Oil Mayo: Creamy, tangy, and totally optional, but it adds luscious moisture and makes everything sing (choose your favorite brand).
• Shredded Lettuce: The fresh crunch that keeps every bite from feeling too heavy—classic sub texture in every forkful.
• Extra Toppings (banana peppers, jalapeño peppers, roasted red peppers, black olives): These are the “choose your own adventure” extras—pile on what you crave for extra color, zip, or heat.
• Avocado Oil or Olive Oil: The base of your dipping sauce—choose a good quality oil for maximum flavor.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: A tangy burst to balance out the richness of all that cured meat and cheese.
• Italian Seasoning: Just a sprinkle over your dipping oil adds an unbeatable aroma and classic Italian taste.
• Toothpicks: Not just functional—these keep everything snug and easy to grab, and make serving a breeze.

How to Make Italian Sub Roll-Up {grain-free}

Step 1: Stack and Layer Your Meats

Start by arranging your meat slices from largest to smallest—think of it as building a colorful, flavorful foundation. Lay the Genoa salami down first, followed by mortadella, then sopressata, and finally pepperoni on top. This specific order gives you the perfect base for rolling while ensuring every bite gets a balanced taste of each meat.

Step 2: The Mayo Swipe

Next up, grab your favorite grain-free mayo (the lime mayo is especially zingy!) and gently spread a thin layer over the meats. Go easy: too much and things will get messy when you roll; too little and you’ll miss out on that creamy touch. A good tip is to stop short of the top edge of the salami, so the filling stays put as you roll.

Step 3: Add Cheese, Lettuce, and Toppings

Place a slice of provolone (if using) on the mayo, setting it about halfway from the top. Now, pile a small handful of shredded lettuce onto the lower half of the stack, right where the rolling will start. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss on your favorite extras: banana peppers for zing, roasted red peppers for sweetness, jalapeños for heat, or black olives for salty depth. Each bite becomes a sensational surprise!

Step 4: Roll Everything Up

Before you roll, make sure your toothpicks are handy. Starting from the bottom edge (where the cheese and lettuce are), carefully but tightly roll the stack upward. If any fillings sneak out, gently nudge them back in—you want a snug, tidy roll that holds together with every slice.

Step 5: Secure and Slice

Once your Italian Sub Roll-Up {grain-free} is all rolled up, use a toothpick to fasten the loose end. This not only keeps everything together, but also makes serving super stylish (they look fantastic on a tray!). Feel free to slice the roll-up in half, or leave it whole for a hearty bite.

Step 6: Whip Up the Dipping Sauce

Mix two parts olive oil (or avocado oil) with one part apple cider vinegar in a ramekin. Sprinkle in a generous pinch of Italian seasoning and give it a good swirl. This bright, herby dip is pure magic: it soaks into the roll-ups just long enough to shine but won’t overpower your careful layering.

Step 7: Serve, Snack, and Enjoy

Your Italian Sub Roll-Up {grain-free} is ready to serve! They’re great straight from the board with the dipping sauce on the side, or packed in a lunchbox for a weekday treat. Don’t be surprised if they vanish in minutes—everyone wants a piece of this Italian deli magic!

How to Serve Italian Sub Roll-Up {grain-free}

Garnishes

Garnishing is where you can turn a simple meal into something company-ready. Scatter extra banana peppers or sliced olives over the plate for a pop of color. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil adds lovely green freshness and a hint of garden aroma. For a little visual drama, drizzle a few stripes of balsamic glaze on the plate before laying down the roll-ups—guests will think you called in a caterer.

Side Dishes

Pairing your Italian Sub Roll-Up {grain-free} is almost as fun as assembling it. Keep it light with a simple arugula salad tossed with lemon and olive oil, or serve with roasted veggies for an extra hearty meal. Crunchy kettle chips, marinated artichokes, or a fresh sliced tomato salad would also complement these roll-ups beautifully—especially on a sunny picnic afternoon.

Creative Ways to Present

For party platters, slice your roll-ups into bite-sized pinwheels and secure with festive toothpicks. Layer them on a wooden board with piles of olives and pickled veggies for a vibrant appetizer spread. Or, skewer mini roll-ups with cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves for a little antipasto-on-a-stick action—kids and adults both love them!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers are honestly a treat—wrap each Italian Sub Roll-Up {grain-free} snugly in plastic wrap or parchment, and pop them in the fridge. They stay perfectly fresh for up to a week, making them a major time-saver for lunches, snacks, or impromptu dinners. The flavors actually meld and develop more after a day or two!

Freezing

While you technically can freeze the roll-ups, I’ll be honest: the texture of the veggies and mayo won’t be quite the same after thawing. If you do freeze, skip the lettuce and extra toppings, and wrap each tightly in plastic before freezing in a zip-top bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results, and add the fresh ingredients right before serving.

Reheating

These are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but if you’re craving a slightly melty, toasty version, just pop your Italian Sub Roll-Up {grain-free} in the oven at 300°F for 5-8 minutes. The meats and cheese warm up nicely, and the flavors get even cozier. Do skip the microwave—it can make the meats rubbery and the mayo separate.

FAQs

Can I make Italian Sub Roll-Up {grain-free} completely dairy-free?

Absolutely! Just leave out the provolone or swap for your favorite dairy-free cheese. The roll-ups stay creamy and full of flavor—thanks to the mayo and all those savory cured meats.

How long do these stay fresh in the refrigerator?

When individually wrapped, your Italian Sub Roll-Up {grain-free} will keep in the fridge for up to 7 days. They’re great for meal prepping lunches or having on hand for busy weeks.

What other meats can I use if I can’t find all four listed?

Feel free to mix and match with what’s available: turkey, roast beef, chicken breast, or any hard salami work beautifully. Just aim for 4-5 layers for proper rolling and that satisfying sub vibe.

Are there any tips for rolling tightly without tearing?

Keep the fillings tucked close to the lower edge and use the largest slices on the outside. Roll slowly and gently, applying even pressure as you go, and pause to push in any runaway fillings. Practice really does make perfect!

Can I make a vegetarian version?

Definitely! Replace the meats with your favorite grain-free wraps or large grilled veggies (like eggplant and zucchini), and add more lettuce and toppings for crunch. The Italian flavors still shine through.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to try this Italian Sub Roll-Up {grain-free} recipe—it’s a total game-changer for anyone craving big Italian flavor with none of the bread. Whether you’re meal prepping, entertaining, or just looking for a protein-packed snack, these roll-ups are endlessly satisfying and so much fun to make. Give them a whirl, and let your creativity take it from there!

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