Italian Sub Broccoli Salad Recipe

If you’re looking for a show-stopping side that blends classic deli flavors with vibrant freshness, the Italian Sub Broccoli Salad should be at the top of your must-try list. Imagine everything you love about a hearty Italian sub — the sharp salami, zippy peppers, briny olives, and creamy provolone — but tossed with crisp broccoli florets and a tangy, herbed dressing. It’s a dish that delivers the irresistible tastes of an Italian deli in every forkful, all while celebrating wholesome veggies. Perfect for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or make-ahead lunches, this Italian Sub Broccoli Salad is a flavor-packed upgrade you’ll crave again and again.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather your ingredients with care — every single component in this Italian Sub Broccoli Salad brings something special to the bowl. You’ll find each addition not only layers flavor, but also offers a burst of color and texture that evokesa classic sandwich shop vibe.

• Broccoli florets: Use fresh, bite-sized pieces for a crisp salad base that holds up to the tangy dressing.
• Genoa salami: Adds a punch of savory, peppery richness that’s essential to the Italian sub experience.
• Provolone cheese: Creamy and mild with just enough tang — slice or cube for pockets of cheesy goodness in every bite.
• Cherry tomatoes: Their juicy pop balances the salty meats and cheese with sweetness and color.
• Red onion: Thin slices give a gentle sharpness, mellowing perfectly after a quick soak in dressing.
• Banana pepper rings: These bring zesty, slightly spicy notes reminiscent of your favorite sub topping.
• Kalamata olives: For a briny, deep-flavored boost with that unmistakable Italian flair.
• Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley adds brightness and a final flourish of green.
• Red wine vinegar: The classic acid for an Italian-style dressing that cuts through the richness.
• Olive oil: Use extra-virgin for the best flavor and a luscious mouthfeel in your dressing.
• Dijon mustard: Brings body and a subtle kick to the vinaigrette.
• Dried oregano and Italian seasoning: Sprinkle in these herbs for that signature sub “shop” aroma.
• Salt and pepper: Season to taste, highlighting all those bold, fresh flavors.

How to Make Italian Sub Broccoli Salad

Step 1: Prep the Broccoli

Start by chopping your broccoli into small, bite-sized florets — think “salad-friendly” pieces that are easy to spear with a fork. If you like extra tenderness, you can blanch the broccoli briefly in boiling water, then plunge into cold water to keep its color bright and crisp. That said, raw works beautifully here, giving the dish fantastic crunch.

Step 2: Assemble the Italian Sub Mix-Ins

Slice the Genoa salami and provolone cheese into thin strips or small cubes, depending on your textural preference. Halve the cherry tomatoes, thinly slice the red onion, and drain your banana peppers and olives. Combine all these in a large mixing bowl with the chopped broccoli and a generous shower of fresh parsley.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a separate small bowl or jar, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, oregano, Italian seasoning, and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust as needed — you want a zingy, assertive dressing that stands up to the robust ingredients. If you love garlic, add a freshly minced clove for an extra pop!

Step 4: Dress and Toss

Pour the dressing over your salad ingredients, and toss gently but thoroughly to ensure everything is coated. Let the Italian Sub Broccoli Salad sit for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) in the fridge for the flavors to meld — this is where the magic really happens as the broccoli softens ever so slightly and every bite takes on that iconic Italian sub flavor.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Give your salad a final fluff and taste for seasoning. Right before serving, you can add a last sprinkle of fresh herbs or extra banana peppers. This salad is just as gorgeous as it is delicious, with its riot of color and bold, punchy flavors.

How to Serve Italian Sub Broccoli Salad

Garnishes

This dish shines with vibrant herbaceous and zesty garnishes. Finish with extra chopped parsley, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or a generous handful of grated Parmesan for that finishing touch. Cracked black pepper and a squirt of fresh lemon juice also work wonders for amplifying the classic flavors in Italian Sub Broccoli Salad.

Side Dishes

Pair your salad with crusty garlic bread, simple grilled chicken, or a platter of assorted antipasto for a meal that feels like a celebratory Italian feast. Because the salad is so bold and satisfying, it can also stand up as a hearty lunch alongside a bowl of minestrone or a handful of crispy baked chips.

Creative Ways to Present

Italian Sub Broccoli Salad is as versatile as it is flavorful! Try packing it into mason jars for all-in-one picnic servings, or pile it onto a toasted sub roll for a no-lettuce “hoagie” salad sandwich. For parties, serve it in small cups or lettuce boats for a fun, grab-and-go presentation that’s sure to get guests talking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Italian Sub Broccoli Salad holds up beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container, and give it a quick toss before serving to re-distribute any dressing that may have settled. The flavors deepen as it sits, making day-two servings especially delicious!

Freezing

Freezing isn’t recommended for this salad, as broccoli and fresh ingredients tend to lose their crunchy texture once thawed. For the best results, enjoy your Italian Sub Broccoli Salad fresh or make it just a day or two ahead of time for guaranteed crunch and flavor.

Reheating

No reheating necessary — this salad is best enjoyed cold or at cool room temperature. In fact, it’s perfect for meal prep lunches or quick serve-from-the-fridge sides when you don’t want to fuss with the stove.

FAQs

Can I use other meats or cheeses in Italian Sub Broccoli Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in sliced ham, pepperoni, turkey, or even mortadella. For cheese, mozzarella, fontina, or a sharp cheddar would each add their own special twist. Mix and match your favorites to personalize the salad.

Is it possible to make this salad vegetarian?

You can easily make Italian Sub Broccoli Salad vegetarian by omitting the salami and doubling up on the cheese, olives, or even adding chickpeas for extra protein. The base flavors are deliciously versatile!

How long in advance can I make the salad?

Prepare this salad up to 24 hours before serving for optimal flavor. The broccoli stays crisp, and the other ingredients hold up well in the fridge once dressed. Just be sure to give it a gentle toss and check for seasoning before serving.

What’s the best way to cut the broccoli for this recipe?

Chop the broccoli into small, uniform florets — they should be easy to grab with a fork, but not so tiny that they disappear among the other mix-ins. Prepping them evenly makes for the most satisfying, colorful bites.

Can I add pasta or grains to Italian Sub Broccoli Salad?

Definitely! Tossing in some cooked and cooled short pasta (such as rotini or penne) or cooked farro can turn the salad into a more substantial main dish. Just add a bit more dressing to keep the texture lively.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a salad lover or an Italian sub superfan, you’ll find this Italian Sub Broccoli Salad is bursting with personality and flavor. It’s a joyful, shareable dish that’s as fun to eat as it is to make. Don’t be surprised if it goes straight into your recipe hall of fame — give it a try the next chance you get!

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