The Jersey Mike’s Copycat Recipe I Can’t Stop Making

I don’t eat out as much as I used to—mostly because I prefer to make my own food but also because dining out can be expensive. However, when I do feel like treating myself, one of my go-to places is Jersey Mike’s. Their subs are some of the best and when I order mine, I always request they prepare it Mike’s Way. That means my sub gets loaded with lettuce, tomato, onions, red wine vinegar, olive oil, oregano, and salt. I always eat it immediately because it’s so delicious, but also to prevent SBS (soggy bun syndrome). Recently, I saw that people are turning Mike’s famous subs into salads and I love that idea (a clever solution to SBS). I couldn’t wait to have my salad Mike’s Way, or should I say Sara’s Way?

Most online versions of the salad begin with a big bowl of chopped romaine lettuce that gets topped with various deli meats and cheeses along with tomatoes, onion, oregano, and salt before it’s dressed with red wine vinegar and olive oil. Then it’s time for customization! Use this as a base and add whatever other vegetables or protein sounds good to you. I’ve seen everything from garbanzo beans to grilled chicken. Also, feel free to use whichever cheese your heart desires. Cheddar, provolone, Swiss, the options are endless.

Inspired, I set out to create my version, embracing the classic sub sandwich flavors, but with a few twists to make it more me. I kept the foundation of lettuce, tomato, onion, deli meats, and cheeses. I also kept the seasoning and simple olive oil and red wine vinegar dressing. I tossed in some sliced banana peppers for a little bit of heat and acidity. I’m also a big crouton fan, so I made my own out of some French bread (store-bought works, too). Finally, I added some green bell pepper, because it just felt right, and olives because I love the pop of briny saltiness. 

The result was delicious, but we already knew that, right? It’s everything you enjoy about the sub, but in salad form. Since I’m already on #teamsalad, this version wasn’t a stretch for me and I loved how quickly and easily it all came together. There’s no need to measure or cook anything (unless you have big crouton goals like me), so you can literally put it all in a bowl, toss, and enjoy! If you need some guidance, I’ve included a loose recipe below.

Jersey Mike’s Copycat “Sub in a Tub”

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 8 cups chopped romaine
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced or diced
• 1/2 cup cured meat or deli meat, sliced or diced
• 1 cup diced cheese
• 1/2 cup jarred pepperoncinis, sliced
• 1/2 cup pitted green olives
• 2 cups croutons

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Add the lettuce to a large serving bowl along with the remaining salad ingredients.
2. Whisk the vinegar, oil, oregano, salt, and black pepper together in a small bowl or add to a lidded jar and shake to combine. Pour over salad and toss until ingredients are well-coated. Enjoy immediately.