Dinner

Sub in a Tub: A Fresh Ham, Turkey, and Veggie Salad Recipe

ByElena Hart April 1, 2026April 1, 2026

Introduction

This Sub in a Tub recipe is a fresh and satisfying twist on the classic deli sandwich, perfect for a light lunch or easy dinner. It layers all your favorite sub ingredients in a bowl without the bread, making it a low-carb and flavorful meal option.

Two white bowls sit on a white marbled surface, each filled with a layered salad arranged in a circular pattern. Starting from the outer edge, the first layer is thinly sliced pale turkey, fanned out evenly. Next is a layer of pink ham slices overlapping each other. Following that, there are smooth, light yellow cheese slices placed in a neat row. Thin rings of purple-red onion form the next layer, slightly tucked under the cheese. Bright red tomato slices, cut into wedges, fill the next section, and the final layer near the center features small, ridged green pickle slices. The salad sits on a bed of shredded pale green lettuce, and the toppings are sprinkled with coarse black pepper. Small bowls with ground spices and golden olive oil, plus a plate with extra cheese slices, are scattered around. A striped gray and white cloth is also part of the scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 oz. shredded iceberg lettuce
6 oz. ham slices

6 oz. turkey slices
6 slices provolone cheese, chopped

2 large tomatoes, sliced
¼ cup red onion slices

½ cup pickle chips
½ tsp oregano
¼ tsp garlic powder

¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp pepper
2 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp red wine vinegar

Instructions

Step 1: Divide the shredded iceberg lettuce evenly among four bowls to form the base of each sub tub.
Step 2: Layer each bowl with equal amounts of ham, turkey, chopped provolone cheese, tomato slices, red onion slices, and pickle chips.

Step 3: In a small dish, combine the oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create your seasoning mix.
Step 4: Drizzle olive oil and red wine vinegar over each bowl, then sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly on top to finish your sub in a tub.

Tips & Variations

Swap iceberg lettuce for romaine or mixed greens for added texture and nutrients.

Use mustard or a dash of mayonnaise if you prefer a creamier dressing.
Add sliced avocado or pepperoncini for extra flavor and creaminess.
For a vegetarian option, replace the meats with grilled mushrooms or marinated tofu.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate if possible to avoid soggy lettuce. Reheat is generally not recommended since this dish is best served fresh and cold.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with a colorful layered salad sits on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is shredded pale green lettuce. On top, there are thin, curved slices of red tomato arranged in a neat row toward the front right. Next to the tomato, to the right, are green, crinkly pickle slices shaped like stars. Moving further right, there are pale yellow cheese slices with some black pepper sprinkled on top. At the back of the bowl, slightly to the left, are stacks of light pink folded ham slices with a fine sprinkle of black pepper on them. To the far left, white turkey slices are layered in a slightly arched shape. The textures vary from soft and smooth meats to crisp vegetables, giving the salad a fresh and appealing look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Sub in a Tub is naturally gluten-free as it uses no bread. Just ensure that all your deli meats and condiments are labeled gluten-free.

What can I use instead of provolone cheese?

You can substitute provolone with mozzarella, cheddar, or any cheese you prefer for a different flavor profile.

Elena Hart