If you’ve ever craved the tangy, creamy, and slightly sweet dressing that perfectly complements your favorite sub sandwiches, you’re in for a treat! The iconic “Sub in a Tub” dressing is beloved for its versatile flavor that elevates any sandwich, salad, or even veggie dip.
Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or just want to add an authentic deli touch to your homemade subs, this dressing recipe is simple to make and uses everyday ingredients. No need to buy the store-bought version full of preservatives – whip up this fresh and flavorful dressing in minutes and store it right in your fridge.
It’s a perfect balance of creamy, zesty, and savory that will keep you coming back for more.
This homemade version of Sub in a Tub dressing is not only delicious but also customizable to suit your taste preferences. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sandwiches and salads, making it a must-have staple in your kitchen.
Let’s dive into this easy recipe that promises big flavor and endless possibilities!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Sub in a Tub dressing recipe is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it captures the classic deli taste with a perfect blend of mayonnaise, vinegar, and spices.
It’s creamy yet tangy, making it an ideal complement to cold cuts, veggies, and even as a dip for snacks. The ingredients are simple and commonly found in most pantries, so you won’t need a special trip to the store.
Additionally, it’s extremely versatile. Whether you want to use it as a sandwich spread, a salad dressing, or even a dip for fries and veggies, it works beautifully.
It stores well in the fridge, allowing you to prepare it ahead of time and enjoy it whenever the craving strikes. Plus, you can easily tweak the seasoning to make it milder or bolder.
This recipe is perfect for home cooks of all levels looking to bring a deli favorite right to their kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise (use full-fat for best flavor or light for a healthier option)
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar for a subtle fruity note)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (adjust to taste for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a hint of smokiness)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons water (to thin the dressing, optional)
Equipment
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Storage container with lid (for refrigerating)
- Spatula (optional, for scraping down the sides)
Instructions
- Combine the mayonnaise and vinegar. In your medium mixing bowl, add the mayonnaise and white vinegar. Whisk together until smooth and creamy. The vinegar adds the tangy base that makes this dressing so special.
- Add the sugar and dry spices. Stir in the sugar, dried oregano, dried parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, paprika (if using), and salt. Whisk well to evenly distribute the seasonings throughout the dressing.
- Adjust consistency. If the dressing feels too thick for your liking, gradually add the water, one teaspoon at a time, whisking in between until you reach your desired consistency. It should be thick enough to spread but still easy to drizzle.
- Taste and tweak. Taste your dressing and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add a little more sugar if you prefer it sweeter, or a splash more vinegar for extra tang.
- Refrigerate to meld flavors. Transfer the dressing to a storage container with a lid. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve and enjoy. Use this dressing on your favorite submarine sandwiches, as a salad dressing, or even as a dip for fresh veggies or fries.
Tips & Variations
For a lighter version, swap half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeño.
If you prefer fresh herbs, substitute dried oregano and parsley with 1 tablespoon each of freshly chopped herbs.
Make a vegan version by using vegan mayonnaise and a splash of lemon juice instead of vinegar.
Pro Tip: Letting the dressing sit overnight enhances the flavor even more, so prepare it a day ahead if possible.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per 2 tbsp serving |
---|---|
Calories | 120 kcal |
Total Fat | 13 g |
Saturated Fat | 2 g |
Cholesterol | 5 mg |
Sodium | 150 mg |
Total Carbohydrates | 1 g |
Sugars | 1 g |
Protein | 0 g |
Serving Suggestions
This dressing is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:
- Classic Sub Sandwich Spread: Spread generously on your favorite hoagie rolls or baguettes before layering deli meats, cheeses, lettuce, and tomato.
- Salad Dressing: Drizzle over a crisp garden salad or a Mediterranean chopped salad for a creamy, tangy boost.
- Dip for Veggies and Chips: Use as a flavorful dip for fresh cut veggies, potato chips, or even crispy fries.
- Grilled Chicken or Tofu Sauce: Add a dollop on grilled chicken breasts or baked tofu for added flavor and moisture.
- Wraps and Pita Sandwiches: Spread inside wraps or pita pockets filled with falafel, hummus, or roasted vegetables.
If you enjoy this recipe, you might also love exploring more flavorful and healthy options like the Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas, or try your hand at comforting dishes like the Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food.
For a quick and delightful meal, the Budget Bytes Recipe Thai Noodles Vegetarian and Delicious is a must-try!
Conclusion
Making your own Sub in a Tub dressing is a wonderful way to bring the authentic deli flavor into your home kitchen without any fuss. This recipe is straightforward, uses simple ingredients, and can be customized to suit your personal taste.
Whether you’re using it as a sandwich spread, a salad dressing, or a dip, it will add a delicious tangy creaminess that complements a wide variety of dishes.
Not only does this dressing taste great, but it also stores well, making it perfect for meal prepping or last-minute meal enhancements. By preparing it yourself, you avoid unnecessary preservatives and control the flavor balance to your liking.
So next time you’re craving that classic sub sandwich experience, reach for this homemade dressing and savor every bite!
📖 Recipe Card: Sub in a Tub Dressing Recipe
Description: A creamy, tangy dressing perfect for sandwiches or salads. Easy to prepare and pairs well with a variety of dishes.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT10M
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup finely chopped pickles
- 1 tablespoon pickle juice
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine mayonnaise and sour cream.
- Add white vinegar and sugar, mix well.
- Stir in onion powder, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Fold in finely chopped pickles and pickle juice.
- Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 120 | Protein: 1g | Fat: 12g | Carbs: 2g
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