The Ultimate Italian Deli Oil and Vinegar Drizzle: Your Secret Weapon for Sub Sandwiches and Salads

There’s something magic about the oil and vinegar drizzle you get on a great Italian sub—it’s tangy, bold, savory, and ties the whole sandwich together like the final brushstroke on a masterpiece. I’ll admit, I’ve tried to replicate the flavor of my favorite sandwich shops for years, especially that perfect jersey mikes oil and vinegar recipe copycat. After plenty of trial and error, I finally landed on a version that nails it. Whether you're recreating a jersey mikes italian sub copycat at home, loading up a sub in a tub salad bowl, or just drizzling over crisp veggies, this Italian deli oil and vinegar drizzle is your go-to flavor booster.

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Italian Deli Oil and Vinegar Drizzle

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 5 minutes mins

Course Condiment

Cuisine American, Italian

Servings 0.75 cup (enough for 6–8 subs or several salads)

Equipment

• Small mixing bowl or mason jar with lid A mason jar is ideal if you want to shake the ingredients together and store it in the fridge.
• Whisk or Fork For mixing if using a bowl.
• Measuring spoons and cups Precision matters here, especially with the vinegar-to-oil ratio.
• Funnel (optional) If you're transferring the dressing to a bottle or jar for storage.
• Salad dressing bottle (optional) Great for easy pouring if you plan to use this frequently.

Ingredients

  

Extra virgin olive oil (½ cup)

• The backbone of the dressing. Go for high-quality EVOO with peppery notes.

Red wine vinegar (¼ cup)

• Adds the perfect acidic bite. You can substitute with homemade vinegar if you have some on hand for extra punch.

Dried oregano (1½ tsp)

• Essential for that classic sub shop flavor.

Garlic powder (½ tsp)

• Adds depth and warmth.

Onion powder (¼ tsp)

• Balances the tang of the vinegar with a subtle sweetness.

Salt (½ tsp)

• Use kosher or sea salt for better flavor distribution.

Black pepper (¼ tsp)

• Freshly cracked is best.

Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, ¼ tsp)

• For a slight heat that lingers.

Sugar (⅛ tsp, optional)

• Just a pinch to balance the acidity.

Dijon mustard (½ tsp, optional)

• Not always traditional but it emulsifies the oil and vinegar into a thicker drizzle and adds a hint of sharpness.

Instructions

 

Step 1: Combine the Seasonings

1. In a small bowl or mason jar, combine the dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and optional sugar. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps them disperse evenly throughout the liquid.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

1. Pour in the red wine vinegar and Dijon mustard (if using). Whisk vigorously to combine. Then slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously. This will help emulsify the mixture and prevent separation.
2. If you're using a jar, add all ingredients, seal with a lid, and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until fully combined.

Step 3: Taste and Adjust

1. Dip a piece of bread or lettuce into the mixture and taste. Adjust seasoning as needed—maybe a bit more vinegar for brightness, or a touch more salt for balance.

Step 4: Store or Use Immediately

1. If not using right away, pour into a bottle or keep in the mason jar. Store in the refrigerator for up to a week. Shake before each use as the oil and vinegar will separate.

Pairings in Detail

This oil and vinegar drizzle is extremely versatile and can elevate almost any sandwich or salad. Here are some stellar pairings:

1. Classic Italian Sub Sandwich

Nothing beats a homemade jersey mikes italian sub copycat. Layer up salami, capicola, provolone, and veggies, then drizzle generously with this dressing for that “mikes way” recipe flavor. Want to go low carb? Use the same fillings in a jersey mikes sub in a tub copycat setup—just as satisfying.

2. Sub in a Tub Salad Bowls

This dressing shines on filling salads packed with meats, cheeses, and veggies. It adds zing without the heaviness of creamy dressings, making it a favorite among the low carb love crowd.

3. Grilled Veggies or Antipasto Platters

Use this as a marinade or post-grill drizzle on zucchini, peppers, and eggplant. Or splash it over an antipasto plate with olives, mozzarella, and cured meats.

4. Homemade Submarine Sandwiches

For any sandwich oil and vinegar recipe, this one stands out. Use it on your own submarine sauce recipe creations—especially if you're hunting for a legit subway oil and vinegar recipe alternative.

5. Simple Green Salads

Sometimes the basics are best. This makes a great alternative to traditional vinaigrettes and complements a crisp bed of romaine, tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions.

FAQs

1. What kind of olive oil should I use?

Use a good-quality extra virgin olive oil. Look for a cold-pressed version with fruity or peppery undertones. Avoid light olive oil or blends, as they lack depth of flavor.

2. Can I substitute other types of vinegar?

Yes, white wine vinegar, balsamic, or apple cider vinegar can be used, but red wine vinegar most closely mimics the flavor in the original jersey mikes oil and vinegar recipe. For the most authentic submarine dressing recipe, stick with red wine.

3. How do I keep the oil and vinegar from separating?

Adding a small amount of Dijon mustard or even a bit of mayo can help emulsify the mixture. If you're going fully traditional like a copycat jersey mikes oil and vinegar, just shake before each use.

4. Is this dressing low carb?

Absolutely. This drizzle fits perfectly into keto or low-carb diets, especially when used on jersey mikes sub in a tub copycat dishes or sub in a tub salad bowls. No sugar is necessary, but a pinch can help balance flavor if desired.

5. Can I use this as a marinade?

Definitely. This sandwich oil recipe doubles as an excellent marinade for chicken, shrimp, or even steak. It tenderizes meat and adds a ton of zesty flavor. Try it on grilled subs or Italian-style skewers.