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If you’re like me, you love a good Italian sub. Layers of savory meats, tangy pickled peppers, sharp cheese, and crisp veggies all brought together by that zippy Italian dressing. But sometimes, I want all those bold, satisfying flavors without the heavy bread. Insert: Italian Sub Salad! This recipe is made with shredded cabbage and everything else you love in a sub sandwich.
This isn’t your average salad. The base? Not lettuce but shredded cabbage. Cabbage is having a moment at this point in time, I am here to take full advantage of that. It’s sturdy, crunchy, and holds up beautifully under a generous pour of vinaigrette. It’s the perfect blank canvas for everything you’d find piled high in your favorite Italian deli sandwich!
Why you’ll love this Cabbage Italian Sub Salad!
- Holds up well! Unlike a soggy lettuce salad, cabbage is superior in that the crunch lasts long after the dressing is added. Making this a perfect replacement for lettuce or bread. But also, so good for meal prep lunches throughout the week!
- Lighter version of an Italian sub! As a nutritionist, I love taking a classic dish with all the same flavor, but a healthier variation. This one packs in fiber, antioxidants, and protein. It’s not just filler– it’s fuel!
- Versatility. You can easily add in chickpeas for more fiber and protein, swap out your veggies, and add in your favorite touches. I’ve also made this with pasta in place of cabbage. Dill pickles? Oh yes, I’ve definitely done this too! It’s endlessly adaptable.
- Make ahead! It’s perfect for meal prep, summer picnics, or an easy weeknight dinner. Plus, it holds up well in the fridge, making it great for leftovers.
Let’s make this easy salad!
Here is what you’ll need:
- Shredded cabbage – the crunchy, fiber-rich foundation that makes this salad hearty enough to be a meal.
- Sliced salami – salty, savory, and classic. You can also add other Italian meats like capicola, prosciutto, or pepperoni if you’re feeling fancy.
- Provolone cheese – sliced or cubed, it adds a creamy, slightly sharp contrast.
- Tomatoes and cucumber – for a burst of juiciness and freshness.
- Red onion – thinly sliced for bite and color.
- Pepperoncinis – briny, tangy, and just a little bit spicy. They make the salad pop.
- Fresh basil – torn right before serving, it adds a fragrant, herbal layer that ties everything together.
- Italian vinaigrette – the finishing touch. I like mine homemade with avocado oil (or olive oil), red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, and a touch of Dijon mustard.
Italian Sub Salad with Cabbage (No-Bread!)
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 head Green cabbage
- 8 oz Salami, (diced)
- 6 slices Provolone cheese , sliced
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes, (diced or halved)
- 1/2 cup Banana peppers
- 1 cup Diced cucumber
- 1/2 large Red onion, (sliced)
- 1/4 cup Chopped fresh basil
For the Dressing:
- 2/3 cup Avocado oil or olive oil
- 1/4 cup Red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp Sea salt
Instructions
- Finely chop the entire head of cabbage into thin slices. Place in a large bowl.
- Add the salami, provolone cheese, banana peppers, tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion on top of the cabbage.
- In a jar or bowl with a lid, add the dressing ingredients. Shake until well combined. Pour into the large salad bowl and toss everything to combine. Top with fresh basil and serve.
Love this salad. Would eat for lunch everyday!
How many servings is this salad?
Hi! There are 4 servings in this salad, but note that the serving size is pretty large! If serving as a side dish, you can easily feed 8 people.