Subway Meal Deal December: Delicious Recipe Ideas to Recreate at Home

December is the season of festive cheer, twinkling lights, and, for many, the irresistible allure of a Subway Meal Deal. Whether you’re a student grabbing a quick lunch, a busy professional seeking a convenient dinner, or simply a sandwich enthusiast, the Subway Meal Deal provides a customizable and satisfying experience. But what if you could bring that Subway magic into your own kitchen? This article explores creative and delicious recipe ideas inspired by the classic Subway Meal Deal, perfect for recreating your favorite flavors at home this December – and beyond!

## Understanding the Allure of the Subway Meal Deal

Before diving into the recipes, let’s dissect what makes the Subway Meal Deal so appealing. It’s not just about the affordability (though that’s certainly a factor!). It’s the combination of:

* **Customization:** The ability to choose your bread, protein, cheese, vegetables, and sauces allows for a truly personalized sandwich.
* **Variety:** With a wide range of options available, you can try something new every time.
* **Convenience:** It’s a quick and easy way to get a satisfying meal on the go.
* **Familiarity:** The consistent quality and taste provide a sense of comfort and reliability.

Our goal is to capture these elements in our homemade versions, offering you the freedom to experiment with ingredients and create your own Subway-inspired masterpieces.

## Recreating the Core Elements: Bread, Protein, Cheese, and Toppings

Before we get into specific recipe ideas, let’s cover the essential components of a Subway-style sandwich.

### 1. The Bread: The Foundation of Your Sandwich

Subway offers a variety of bread options, each with its unique texture and flavor. Here’s how to recreate some of the most popular choices at home:

* **Italian (White):** This is a classic choice, offering a soft and slightly chewy texture. You can find similar loaves at most grocery stores, often labeled as “Italian Bread” or “French Bread.” Alternatively, you can bake your own! A simple recipe using flour, water, yeast, salt, and a touch of olive oil will yield a delicious and authentic Italian loaf. Look for recipes online specifically designed for sandwich bread, ensuring a slightly denser texture that holds up well to fillings.

**Homemade Italian Bread Recipe (Simplified):**

* **Ingredients:**

* 3 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
* 1 1/4 cups warm water (105-115°F)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more for greasing
* **Instructions:**

1. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
3. Add yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add more flour if needed.
5. Grease a large bowl with olive oil. Place dough in the bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. Punch down the dough and shape it into a long loaf. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let rise for another 30 minutes.
8. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slash the top of the loaf with a sharp knife.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool completely before slicing.

* **Honey Oat:** This bread offers a slightly sweet and nutty flavor. You can find similar loaves at some bakeries or specialty grocery stores. To recreate the honey oat flavor at home, add a couple of tablespoons of honey and 1/4 cup of rolled oats to your Italian bread recipe. You can also sprinkle some oats on top of the loaf before baking for added texture and visual appeal.

* **Wheat:** A healthier option with a slightly nutty and wholesome flavor. Look for whole wheat bread at your grocery store. For a closer match to Subway’s wheat bread, choose a loaf that’s soft and slightly sweet.

* **Flatbread:** A thinner and more pliable option. You can easily find flatbreads (like naan or pita bread) at most grocery stores. Alternatively, you can make your own flatbread using a simple recipe of flour, water, salt, and a touch of oil. Cook it in a hot skillet until lightly browned and puffed up.

### 2. The Protein: The Heart of Your Sandwich

Subway offers a diverse range of protein options, from classic cold cuts to grilled meats. Here’s how to recreate some of the most popular choices:

* **Turkey Breast:** A lean and healthy option. You can buy sliced turkey breast at most grocery stores. For a more authentic Subway experience, look for thinly sliced turkey breast that’s moist and flavorful. You can also roast your own turkey breast at home and slice it thinly for sandwiches. Roasting your own allows for greater control over the flavor and sodium content.

**Tips for Roasting Turkey Breast:**

* Choose a bone-in or boneless turkey breast (bone-in will generally be more flavorful).
* Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and any other desired spices.
* Rub the turkey breast with olive oil or butter to help it brown nicely.
* Roast at 325°F (160°C) until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
* Let the turkey breast rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

* **Ham:** A classic deli meat that adds a salty and savory flavor. Look for thinly sliced ham at your grocery store. Black Forest ham or honey ham are good options for a more flavorful sandwich.

* **Roast Beef:** A rich and flavorful option. You can buy sliced roast beef at most deli counters. Look for rare or medium-rare roast beef for the best flavor and texture.

* **Chicken Breast:** A versatile option that can be grilled, baked, or pan-fried. Grilled chicken breast offers a smoky flavor, while baked chicken breast is a healthier option. Pan-fried chicken breast is a quick and easy way to add protein to your sandwich.

**Marinating Chicken Breast for Extra Flavor:**

* Combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, herbs (like oregano, thyme, or rosemary), salt, and pepper in a bowl.
* Add chicken breasts to the marinade and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
* Grill, bake, or pan-fry the chicken breasts until cooked through.

* **Tuna:** A classic Subway staple, often mixed with mayonnaise and celery. You can easily make your own tuna salad at home using canned tuna, mayonnaise, celery, onion, and seasonings. Adjust the amount of mayonnaise to your liking. Some people prefer a lighter tuna salad with less mayonnaise, while others prefer a creamier version.

**Tips for Making Tuna Salad:**

* Use high-quality canned tuna in water or oil.
* Drain the tuna well before mixing with other ingredients.
* Chop the celery and onion finely for even distribution.
* Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of vinegar for brightness.
* Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika.

* **Meatballs (Marinara):** While requiring more effort, homemade meatballs in marinara sauce can be a delicious Subway alternative. Use a recipe for classic Italian meatballs, simmered in your favorite marinara sauce. Serve warm on your chosen bread.

**Easy Meatball Recipe:**

* **Ingredients:**

* 1 pound ground beef (or a mixture of beef and pork)
* 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 egg, beaten
* 1/4 cup chopped onion
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* **Instructions:**

1. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients. Mix gently with your hands until just combined (do not overmix).
2. Roll the mixture into small meatballs.
3. You can bake, fry, or simmer the meatballs in marinara sauce. To bake, preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes. To fry, heat some oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the meatballs until browned on all sides. To simmer, add the meatballs to your favorite marinara sauce and simmer for at least 30 minutes.

### 3. The Cheese: Adding Flavor and Texture

Subway offers a variety of cheese options to complement your sandwich. Here’s how to recreate them at home:

* **Cheddar:** A classic choice with a sharp and tangy flavor. Look for sliced cheddar cheese at your grocery store. Mild, medium, or sharp cheddar can be used depending on your preference.

* **Monterey Jack:** A mild and creamy cheese that melts well. Look for sliced Monterey Jack cheese at your grocery store. This cheese is a good option if you want a mild flavor that doesn’t overpower the other ingredients.

* **Provolone:** A semi-hard cheese with a slightly sharp and nutty flavor. Look for sliced provolone cheese at your grocery store. This cheese adds a distinct Italian flavor to your sandwich.

* **Pepper Jack:** A Monterey Jack cheese infused with jalapeño peppers, adding a spicy kick. Look for sliced pepper jack cheese at your grocery store. This cheese is a good option if you like a little heat in your sandwich.

* **Swiss:** A mild and slightly nutty cheese with characteristic holes. Look for sliced Swiss cheese at your grocery store. This cheese adds a classic deli flavor to your sandwich.

### 4. The Toppings: Freshness and Crunch

Subway’s toppings are what truly personalize your sandwich. The fresher the toppings, the better the final product.

* **Lettuce:** Crisp iceberg lettuce is the standard, but romaine or mixed greens can also be used. Wash and dry the lettuce thoroughly before adding it to your sandwich.

* **Tomato:** Sliced ripe tomatoes add juiciness and acidity. Choose tomatoes that are firm and have a deep red color.

* **Cucumber:** Thinly sliced cucumbers add a refreshing crunch. English cucumbers (also known as seedless cucumbers) are a good option because they have thinner skin and fewer seeds.

* **Green Peppers:** Sliced green peppers add a slightly bitter and crunchy flavor. You can also use red or yellow bell peppers for a sweeter flavor.

* **Red Onion:** Thinly sliced red onion adds a pungent and slightly sweet flavor. Soak the sliced red onion in cold water for a few minutes to reduce its sharpness.

* **Black Olives:** Sliced black olives add a salty and briny flavor. Choose pitted black olives for convenience.

* **Pickles:** Dill pickle slices add a tangy and crunchy flavor. You can also use sweet pickles or bread and butter pickles.

* **Jalapeños:** Sliced jalapeños add a spicy kick. Use caution when handling jalapeños and avoid touching your eyes. You can also use pickled jalapeños for a milder flavor.

* **Spinach:** Fresh spinach leaves offer a healthy and flavorful alternative to lettuce. Wash and dry the spinach thoroughly before adding it to your sandwich.

### 5. The Sauces: The Finishing Touch

Subway’s sauces are the final element that ties everything together. Here’s how to recreate some of the most popular choices at home:

* **Mayonnaise:** A classic condiment that adds creaminess and richness. Use your favorite brand of mayonnaise, or make your own! Homemade mayonnaise is surprisingly easy to make and tastes much better than store-bought.

**Easy Homemade Mayonnaise Recipe:**

* **Ingredients:**

* 1 large egg yolk
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar
* 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
* 1/2 cup neutral-flavored oil (like canola or grapeseed)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* **Instructions:**

1. In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolk, lemon juice or vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
2. Slowly drizzle in the oil, whisking constantly, until the mayonnaise begins to emulsify.
3. Continue adding the oil in a slow, steady stream, whisking constantly, until the mayonnaise is thick and creamy.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

* **Mustard:** Yellow mustard, Dijon mustard, or honey mustard are all popular choices. Choose your favorite type of mustard to add a tangy and flavorful kick to your sandwich.

* **Ranch Dressing:** A creamy and tangy dressing that’s perfect for cold-cut sandwiches. Use your favorite brand of ranch dressing, or make your own! Homemade ranch dressing is easy to make and tastes much better than store-bought.

**Easy Homemade Ranch Dressing Recipe:**

* **Ingredients:**

* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
* 1/4 cup buttermilk
* 1 tablespoon dried parsley
* 1 teaspoon dried dill
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* **Instructions:**

1. In a bowl, combine all ingredients. Whisk until smooth.
2. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

* **Sweet Onion Sauce:** A sweet and tangy sauce that’s a Subway signature. Recreating this sauce at home requires a bit of experimentation. A base of mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, and a touch of onion powder will get you close. Some recipes also suggest adding a splash of white vinegar or lemon juice for acidity.

**Attempt at Sweet Onion Sauce:**

* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 2 tablespoons honey
* 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
* 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
* 1 teaspoon white vinegar (or lemon juice)
* Pinch of salt

Mix ingredients well and adjust to taste, adding more honey for sweetness or vinegar for tanginess.

* **Chipotle Southwest Sauce:** A smoky and spicy sauce that’s perfect for chicken or steak sandwiches. You can buy chipotle mayonnaise at some grocery stores, or make your own by adding chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to mayonnaise.

**Easy Chipotle Southwest Sauce:**

Mix mayonnaise with a small amount of pureed chipotle pepper in adobo sauce. Add a squeeze of lime juice for freshness.

## Subway-Inspired Recipe Ideas for December

Now that we’ve covered the core elements, let’s explore some specific recipe ideas inspired by popular Subway sandwiches:

### 1. The Classic Turkey Breast Sub

* **Bread:** Italian or Wheat
* **Protein:** Thinly sliced turkey breast
* **Cheese:** Cheddar or Monterey Jack
* **Toppings:** Lettuce, tomato, cucumber, green peppers, red onion
* **Sauce:** Mayonnaise, mustard, or ranch dressing

This is a simple yet satisfying sandwich that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. The key to a great turkey breast sub is to use high-quality ingredients and to layer them carefully.

### 2. The Spicy Italian Sub

* **Bread:** Italian
* **Protein:** Genoa Salami, Pepperoni
* **Cheese:** Provolone
* **Toppings:** Lettuce, Tomato, Onion, Banana Peppers (or Jalapeños)
* **Sauce:** Oil and Vinegar, or a touch of Italian dressing

Recreate the fiery favorite with thinly sliced Genoa salami and pepperoni. The Provolone cheese provides a sharp complement to the spicy meats, and the banana peppers (or jalapeños, if you dare!) add an extra kick. The oil and vinegar dressing provides a simple yet flavorful finish.

### 3. The Chicken Teriyaki Sub

* **Bread:** Italian or Honey Oat
* **Protein:** Grilled chicken breast marinated in teriyaki sauce
* **Cheese:** Provolone or Swiss
* **Toppings:** Lettuce, Tomato, Green Peppers
* **Sauce:** Teriyaki sauce, or a drizzle of sesame oil

Marinate chicken breast in your favorite teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes before grilling. The teriyaki sauce adds a sweet and savory flavor to the chicken, while the Provolone or Swiss cheese provides a creamy and mild complement. A drizzle of sesame oil adds a touch of richness and aroma.

**Easy Teriyaki Marinade:**

Combine soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and a touch of sesame oil. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

### 4. The Veggie Delite Sub

* **Bread:** Wheat or Honey Oat
* **Protein:** None (or add avocado for extra creaminess)
* **Cheese:** Your choice (optional)
* **Toppings:** Lettuce, tomato, cucumber, green peppers, red onion, black olives, pickles, spinach
* **Sauce:** Mayonnaise, mustard, ranch dressing, or oil and vinegar

This is a healthy and customizable option that’s perfect for vegetarians. Load up on your favorite veggies and add your choice of cheese and sauce. Avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats. You can also add hummus or baba ghanoush for extra flavor and protein.

### 5. The Meatball Marinara Sub

* **Bread:** Italian
* **Protein:** Homemade meatballs in marinara sauce
* **Cheese:** Provolone or Mozzarella
* **Toppings:** None (optional: a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese)
* **Sauce:** Marinara sauce

This hearty and comforting sub is perfect for a cold December day. Use your favorite meatball recipe and simmer the meatballs in marinara sauce until they’re cooked through. Top with Provolone or Mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese (optional).

### 6. The Tuna Salad Sub

* **Bread:** Italian or Wheat
* **Protein:** Homemade Tuna Salad
* **Cheese:** Cheddar or Monterey Jack (Optional)
* **Toppings:** Lettuce, Tomato, Onion, Pickles
* **Sauce:** Mayonnaise (already in the tuna salad)

A classic favorite, easily recreated. Consider adding a dash of hot sauce to your tuna salad for an extra kick.

## Tips for Recreating the Subway Experience at Home

* **Use high-quality ingredients:** The better the ingredients, the better the sandwich will taste.
* **Layer the ingredients carefully:** Start with the lettuce, then add the protein, cheese, and toppings. This will help to prevent the sandwich from getting soggy.
* **Don’t overfill the sandwich:** It’s tempting to load up on the toppings, but too many toppings can make the sandwich difficult to eat.
* **Wrap the sandwich tightly:** This will help to keep the ingredients in place and prevent the sandwich from falling apart.
* **Enjoy immediately:** The best way to enjoy a homemade Subway-inspired sandwich is to eat it immediately.

## Beyond the Sandwich: Recreating the Subway Meal Deal

To truly recreate the Subway Meal Deal experience, consider adding a side and a drink to your homemade sandwich.

* **Chips:** Choose your favorite brand of potato chips or tortilla chips.
* **Cookies:** Bake your own cookies or buy a package of store-bought cookies. Chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, or peanut butter cookies are all good choices.
* **Drinks:** Choose your favorite soda, juice, or iced tea.

## Embrace the Creativity and Customize!
The beauty of recreating these Subway meals is the flexibility. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own personalized masterpiece. Maybe you want to add roasted red peppers to your turkey sub, or swap out the cheddar cheese for feta. The possibilities are endless!

## Conclusion: Your December (and Beyond) Subway Adventure Awaits

This December, ditch the takeout and embrace the creativity of recreating your favorite Subway Meal Deals at home. With a little preparation and experimentation, you can enjoy delicious, customizable sandwiches that rival the real thing. From the classic Turkey Breast to the Spicy Italian, the options are endless. So gather your ingredients, fire up your oven (or just head to the deli!), and get ready to embark on a Subway-inspired culinary adventure. Happy sandwich-making!