This Italian Sub Dressing is the ideal combination of tangy, savory, and herbaceous flavors that elevate any sandwich. A blend of oil, vinegar and traditional Italian spices, it provides a delicious jolt of flavor to meats, cheeses and crisp vegetables.
Do you want to add it to a salad? Use this dressing with my Italian Grinder Salad!
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Italian Sub Dressing
That is a simple combination of some ingredients that really takes any sandwich to the next level! And a mixture of olive oil, red wine vinegar and sharp mustard is the ideal balance of tangy and rich. Dried oregano, garlic and a little crushed red pepper add extra bold Italian flavor.
What you find with this dressing is the versatility. It soaks into the bread just enough to enhance every bite without leaving the sandwich soggy, and it goes well with deli meats like salami, ham and pepperoni. The acidity of the vinegar cuts through the richness of the cheese and meats, resulting in a balanced flavor.
And it is not only for subs — this dressing can be drizzled over salads, grilled vegetables or even used as a marinade for chicken. This homemade version is fresher and more flavorful than store-bought versions, and only requires a few pantry staples. Once you have tried it, you’ll don’t want a sandwich without it!
Ingredients
This best italian sub dressing recipe only requires simple ingredients. The full proportions are listed on the printable recipe card below.
- Olive Oil — The heavy, silky medium that transports all the tastes and provides the dressing its smooth texture.
- Vinegar – Provides a tangy brightness that cuts the richness of the oil and brightens up the flavor.
- Dijon Mustard – Promotes emulsification of the dressing while adding a bit of sharpness and depth.
- Italian Seasoning — A seasoning mix of basil, thyme, rosemary and other herbs that lends the dressing its flavor depth.
- Salt & Black Pepper — Brings out all the flavor and seasons well.
- Honey — A natural sweetener to help cut the acidity and give it a smoother flavor.
- Sugar (Optional) – A pinch of sugar can help tame the acidity and round out the flavors.
How to make homemade Italian sub dressing
- Whisk Together the Ingredients — In a bowl or jar, add olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper and honey (or sugar, if using). Whisk or shake vigorously until combined.
- Let It Rest & Serve — Let the dressing rest a minimum of 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Whisk or shake once more and drizzle over your sub, salad or favorite dish. Enjoy!
Recipe Tips and Variations
- Use Fresh Garlic — Use freshly minced garlic rather than garlic powder for a bold, true flavor.
- Shake Before Using — Because oil and vinegar separate, give the dressing a good shake (or whisk) before drizzle.
- Make It Creamy — For a thicker, creamier version, stir in a spoonful of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.
- Reinforced Umami – Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a rich source of umami.
- Swap the Vinegar — Use balsamic or apple cider vinegar for another depth of flavor.
- Herb boost — A handful of fresh basil or parsley adds a bright note.
Frequently Asked Questions
Extra virgin olive oil works best since it has a rich, smooth flavor that enhances without overwhelming the sandwich. If a milder taste is more your style, use a light olive oil.
vinegar is the classic option here, since that delivers just the right tangy acidity to balance the richness of the meats and cheese. Some variations call for balsamic or white wine vinegar for a slightly different depth of flavor.
The term “Italian Sub” derives from the Italian-American communities who popularized the sandwich — primarily in the Northeastern United States. It is believed to have emerged in Portland, Maine, where an Italian immigrant named Giovanni Amato pioneered the sandwich in the early 1900s.
Italian dressing is an oil-and-vinegar salad dressing flavored with a blend of herbs and spices, and sometimes with lemon juice or sugar for sweetness. Sub sauce is a specifically sandwich-oriented take with a higher ratio of oil than vinegar and fewer add-ins that might compete with deli meats.
If you tried this Best Italian Sub Dressing (Quick and Easy!) or any other recipe on my website, please feel free to leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how it goes in the 📝 comments below. And remember to tag me on Instagram!
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Recipe
The BEST Italian Sub Dressing (Perfect Sauce!)
INGREDIENTS
- ½ cup olive oil rich base.
- 3 tablespoons vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning thyme and rosemary for added depth.
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ½ teaspoon sugar optional — Further balances the tang, if desired.
INSTRUCTIONS
- In a small bowl or salad dressing shaker, combine all of your ingredients. Cover and shake well until emulsified, or whisk until completely emulsified. Season with salt and pepper.
- That's all. Drizzle the dressing over your cold cuts, salads, or Italian sub sandwiches, and dig in!
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