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Craving the comforting flavors of a hearty sub sandwich but staying loyal to your keto lifestyle? The Keto Sub in a Tub is the ultimate solution! This no-bread alternative gives you all the deliciousness of a sub without the carb-heavy roll. It’s fresh, customizable, and loaded with flavors that make it perfect for any meal. Whether you’re meal-prepping, grabbing a quick lunch, or satisfying a sandwich craving, this recipe delivers a guilt-free experience. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to whip up and can be tailored to suit your preferences—ideal for picky eaters or adventurous foodies alike!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Keto-Friendly: Packed with low-carb ingredients, it’s the perfect meal for anyone on a keto journey.
- Customizable: You can mix and match your favorite meats, veggies, and dressings to create a unique sub every time.
- Quick & Easy: With no baking or complex steps, this recipe is ready in minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules.
- Meal Prep Superstar: Prepare it in advance for grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.
- Healthy and Delicious: Packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables, healthy fats, and quality proteins, this meal is as nutritious as it is satisfying.
My Personal Experience
The first time I tried a keto sub in a tub, I was skeptical. Could it really compare to my beloved subs? But one bite in, I was hooked. The crisp crunch of fresh veggies paired with the creamy dressing and savory meats—it felt indulgent yet light. Now, it’s my go-to meal for days when I want something satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. I love how versatile it is; no two bowls ever taste the same!
Required Equipment
- Mixing Bowls: You’ll need at least one medium-sized mixing bowl to toss all your ingredients together. I love using a bowl with enough room so that everything can mix evenly without spilling over. A larger bowl is perfect if you’re preparing a big batch, but if you’re making a single serving, something on the smaller side will work just as well. It makes mixing easy and keeps things neat!
- Cutting Board and Knife: A sharp knife and a sturdy cutting board are a must for chopping the veggies, meats, and toppings. I’ve found that using a big, non-slip cutting board is a game-changer—especially when you’re working with tomatoes or cucumbers that tend to slip. A sharp knife cuts through meats and veggies smoothly, saving you time and effort during prep. I recommend using a good-quality knife that feels comfortable in your hand—makes all the difference when you’re chopping!
- Tongs or a Salad Tossing Fork: These are super handy for mixing your ingredients evenly, making sure every bite is as flavorful as the last. I love using tongs because they give you a little more control, helping you distribute the ingredients gently without squashing anything. If you don’t have tongs, a salad tossing fork works just as well and can help you gently toss everything without making a mess!
- Storage Containers: When you’re meal-prepping, airtight containers are essential for keeping everything fresh. I personally prefer glass containers because they don’t stain like plastic, and they can go straight from the fridge to the microwave. If you’re planning on storing the sub for later, make sure to keep the dressing separate so it doesn’t make the veggies soggy. These containers will keep your sub fresh for up to 3 days and are perfect for making lunch ahead of time!
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Leafy Greens (2 cups): Use lettuce, spinach, or a mix. Romaine adds crunch, while baby spinach is nutrient-dense.
- Sliced Meats (4-6 oz): Turkey, ham, salami, or roast beef work beautifully. Opt for nitrate-free options if possible.
- Cheese (1-2 slices or shredded): Provolone, cheddar, or mozzarella are all great choices. Go for dairy-free cheese if needed.
- Fresh Vegetables (1 cup): Think cucumbers, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes. Substitute with radishes or pickles for variety.
- Olives (2 tbsp): Black or green olives add a briny punch. Skip them if olives aren’t your thing.
- Dressing (2 tbsp): Ranch, Italian, or your favorite keto-friendly dressing. You can also drizzle olive oil and vinegar for a classic touch.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning elevate the flavors.
How to Make Keto Sub in a Tub
- Prepare the Base: Start by washing and drying your leafy greens. Arrange them in a bowl or tub as the foundation.
- Layer the Protein: Add your choice of sliced meats, neatly layering them for an appetizing look.
- Add the Cheese: Place slices or sprinkle shredded cheese over the meats for a creamy, savory touch.
- Chop the Veggies: Dice cucumbers, bell peppers, and other vegetables of your choice. Scatter them over the bowl.
- Garnish: Add olives, pickles, or other toppings to bring extra flavor.
- Drizzle the Dressing: Pour your keto-friendly dressing evenly over the bowl.
- Season: Finish with a pinch of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Toss gently to combine.
- Serve and Enjoy: Dive in with a fork or spoon for a fresh, satisfying meal!
Tips for This Recipe
- Use pre-sliced deli meats to save time.
- Opt for freshly grated cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- Customize the veggies and dressing based on what you have on hand.
- For extra crunch, sprinkle in some crushed pork rinds.
Optional Additions
- Avocado Slices: Adds creaminess and healthy fats.
- Hard-Boiled Egg Slices: Boosts the protein content.
- Jalapeños: For a spicy kick.
- Bacon Crumbles: Because bacon makes everything better!
Serving Ideas
- Serve in a bowl or pack it in a mason jar for a portable lunch.
- Pair with a side of keto chips or a small bowl of soup for a complete meal.
Storage Recommendations
Store the sub in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate if possible to prevent sogginess.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this dairy-free? Yes! Use dairy-free cheese or skip it altogether.
- What’s the best dressing for this recipe? Any keto-friendly dressing works. Ranch, Italian, or olive oil with vinegar are popular choices.
- Is this recipe good for meal prep? Absolutely! Assemble the ingredients in advance but keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 25g
- Total Carbs: 6g
- Net Carbs: 4g
Keto Sub in a Tub Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
- Cutting board and knife
- Tongs or a Salad Tossing Fork
- Storage Containers
Ingredients
- Leafy Greens: 2 cups
- Sliced Meats: 4-6 oz
- Cheese: 1-2 slices
- Fresh Vegetables: 1 cup
- Olives: 2 tbsp
- Dressing: 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Arrange leafy greens in a bowl.
- Layer sliced meats over the greens.
- Add cheese slices or shredded cheese.
- Scatter diced vegetables on top.
- Garnish with olives or pickles.
- Drizzle dressing and season with salt and pepper.
- Toss gently and serve fresh.
I can’t wait to hear how this recipe turned out for you! 😊 Be sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook for daily keto inspiration, delicious recipes, and all the support you need to crush your goals. If you’re new to keto, check out our Keto Diet Plan for Beginners: Step-by-Step Guide—it’s the perfect resource to help you start your low-carb journey with confidence!
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