Subway’s Sizzling Summer: New Menu Recipes to Recreate at Home
Subway’s summer menu has arrived, bringing with it a wave of fresh flavors and exciting combinations. While enjoying these new offerings at your local Subway is always a treat, why not bring the taste of summer home? This article will guide you through recreating some of the most anticipated dishes from Subway’s summer lineup, offering detailed recipes and tips to help you impress your friends and family with your culinary skills.
## Understanding Subway’s Summer Menu Philosophy
Before diving into the recipes, it’s essential to understand the core philosophy behind Subway’s summer menu. Generally, these menus emphasize:
* **Fresh, seasonal ingredients:** Think ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, juicy avocados, and vibrant greens.
* **Light and refreshing flavors:** Lighter sauces, citrusy dressings, and herb-infused ingredients are common.
* **Bold and interesting flavor combinations:** Expect unique pairings that tantalize the taste buds.
* **Customization:** Subway is all about building your perfect sandwich, so the summer menu often features components that allow for personalization.
With this in mind, let’s explore how to recreate some potential stars from the new Subway summer menu.
## Recipe 1: The Tuscan Turkey Italiano (Inspired)
This sandwich aims for a sophisticated blend of savory and tangy notes. While this is a fictional creation inspired by general Subway trends, it embodies the spirit of a potential summer menu addition.
**Ingredients:**
* **Bread:** Italian Herbs and Cheese (or a similar crusty bread).
* **Protein:** Thinly sliced Turkey Breast (high-quality, deli-style).
* **Cheese:** Provolone Cheese (or fresh Mozzarella).
* **Vegetables:**
* Sun-dried Tomatoes (oil-packed, drained).
* Fresh Spinach.
* Roasted Red Peppers (from a jar, drained).
* Thinly sliced Red Onion.
* **Sauce:**
* Pesto Aioli (Recipe Below).
* Balsamic Glaze (optional).
**Pesto Aioli Recipe:**
* 1/4 cup Mayonnaise (high-quality).
* 2 tablespoons Pesto (freshly made or store-bought).
* 1 clove Garlic (minced).
* 1 teaspoon Lemon Juice.
* Salt and Pepper to taste.
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Pesto Aioli:** In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, pesto, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the amount of pesto to your liking – more pesto will result in a stronger pesto flavor.
2. **Prepare the Ingredients:** Slice the bread in half lengthwise. If using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drain them well. If using jarred roasted red peppers, drain them and pat them dry. Thinly slice the red onion.
3. **Assemble the Sandwich:**
* Spread a generous layer of pesto aioli on both halves of the bread.
* On the bottom half, layer the provolone cheese (or fresh mozzarella).
* Add the sliced turkey breast on top of the cheese.
* Arrange the sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, spinach, and red onion over the turkey.
* Drizzle with balsamic glaze (optional).
* Top with the other half of the bread.
4. **Serve:** Cut the sandwich in half (optional) and serve immediately. This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Toast the Bread:** For a warmer sandwich and added texture, lightly toast the bread before adding the ingredients.
* **Add Artichoke Hearts:** Marinated artichoke hearts would be a delicious addition to this sandwich.
* **Substitute the Protein:** Grilled chicken or roasted vegetables could be substituted for the turkey breast.
* **Make it a Wrap:** Use a large spinach wrap instead of bread for a lighter option.
## Recipe 2: Spicy Southwest Chicken Salad (Inspired)
This salad aims for a vibrant mix of southwestern flavors, offering a lighter yet satisfying meal. Again, this recipe is inspired by potential summer menu items and general Subway trends.
**Ingredients:**
* **Lettuce:** Mixed Greens (or romaine lettuce).
* **Protein:** Grilled Chicken Strips (seasoned with southwest spices).
* **Vegetables:**
* Corn (fresh or frozen, thawed).
* Black Beans (canned, rinsed and drained).
* Diced Tomatoes.
* Red Onion (diced).
* Avocado (diced).
* Jalapeños (pickled, sliced – optional).
* **Cheese:** Shredded Cheddar Cheese (or Monterey Jack).
* **Dressing:** Chipotle Ranch Dressing (Recipe Below).
**Chipotle Ranch Dressing Recipe:**
* 1/2 cup Ranch Dressing (high-quality).
* 1-2 teaspoons Chipotle Pepper in Adobo Sauce (minced – start with 1 teaspoon and add more to taste).
* 1 tablespoon Lime Juice.
* 1/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder.
* Salt and Pepper to taste.
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Chipotle Ranch Dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, minced chipotle pepper (start with 1 teaspoon and add more for more heat), lime juice, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. **Prepare the Ingredients:** Wash and dry the lettuce. If using fresh corn, grill or boil it until tender, then cut the kernels off the cob. Rinse and drain the black beans. Dice the tomatoes, red onion, and avocado.
3. **Assemble the Salad:**
* In a large bowl, combine the lettuce, grilled chicken strips, corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, red onion, avocado, and jalapeños (if using).
* Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
* Drizzle with chipotle ranch dressing.
4. **Serve:** Toss the salad gently to combine. Serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Grill the Chicken:** For a smoky flavor, grill the chicken strips instead of pan-frying them. Marinate the chicken in a southwest-style marinade before grilling for added flavor.
* **Add Bell Peppers:** Diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange) would add a pop of color and sweetness to the salad.
* **Substitute the Protein:** Shrimp, steak, or tofu could be substituted for the chicken.
* **Make it a Wrap:** Use a large tortilla wrap instead of a bowl for a portable option.
* **Add Tortilla Strips:** For a crunchy texture, add crushed tortilla strips to the salad.
## Recipe 3: Lemon Herb Tuna Melt (Inspired)
This twist on a classic tuna melt offers a bright and refreshing flavor profile, perfect for a summer lunch. Again, this is a conceptual creation based on Subway’s style.
**Ingredients:**
* **Bread:** Sourdough Bread (or your favorite bread for melts).
* **Tuna Salad:**
* 2 cans Tuna (in water, drained).
* 1/4 cup Mayonnaise (high-quality).
* 2 tablespoons Celery (finely diced).
* 2 tablespoons Red Onion (finely diced).
* 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice.
* 1 tablespoon Fresh Dill (chopped).
* 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley (chopped).
* Salt and Pepper to taste.
* **Cheese:** Swiss Cheese (or provolone).
* **Optional:** Tomato slices.
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Lemon Herb Tuna Salad:** In a medium bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, finely diced celery, finely diced red onion, lemon juice, chopped dill, and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and adjust seasonings as needed.
2. **Assemble the Tuna Melt:** Spread butter lightly on one side of each slice of bread. Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Top with a layer of Swiss cheese, then the lemon herb tuna salad, and another layer of Swiss cheese. If desired, add a few tomato slices. Top with the remaining slice of bread, butter-side up.
3. **Cook the Tuna Melt:** Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey. Press down gently with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
4. **Serve:** Remove the tuna melt from the skillet and cut in half. Serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use Different Herbs:** Experiment with different fresh herbs in the tuna salad, such as basil or chives.
* **Add a Kick:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tuna salad for a subtle kick of heat.
* **Grill the Bread:** For a crispier tuna melt, grill the bread instead of pan-frying it.
* **Use Whole Wheat Bread:** For a healthier option, use whole wheat bread.
* **Add Avocado:** Slices of avocado add a creamy texture and healthy fats to the tuna melt.
## Recipe 4: Mediterranean Veggie Wrap (Inspired)
This vibrant and flavorful wrap is packed with fresh vegetables and Mediterranean flavors, making it a light and satisfying meal.
**Ingredients:**
* **Wrap:** Large Tortilla Wrap (whole wheat or spinach).
* **Hummus:** Store-bought or homemade hummus.
* **Vegetables:**
* Cucumber (thinly sliced).
* Tomato (thinly sliced).
* Red Onion (thinly sliced).
* Bell Pepper (thinly sliced – any color).
* Spinach (fresh).
* Kalamata Olives (pitted and halved).
* Feta Cheese (crumbled).
* **Dressing:** Light Vinaigrette (such as lemon vinaigrette or Greek vinaigrette).
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Ingredients:** Wash and slice all the vegetables. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
2. **Assemble the Wrap:** Lay the tortilla wrap flat on a clean surface. Spread a generous layer of hummus over the entire wrap, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. **Add the Vegetables:** Layer the cucumber, tomato, red onion, bell pepper, and spinach over the hummus. Sprinkle with Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese.
4. **Dress the Wrap:** Drizzle with a light vinaigrette dressing.
5. **Wrap It Up:** Fold in the sides of the wrap, then tightly roll it up from the bottom.
6. **Serve:** Cut the wrap in half (optional) and serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add Falafel:** For a heartier wrap, add falafel balls.
* **Use Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted vegetables, such as eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers, would add a smoky flavor to the wrap.
* **Add Artichoke Hearts:** Marinated artichoke hearts would be a delicious addition.
* **Spice It Up:** Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for a spicy kick.
* **Grill the Wrap:** For a warm and crispy wrap, grill it for a few minutes per side after assembling.
## Recipe 5: Mango Habanero Glazed Chicken (Inspired)
This flavorful and spicy chicken bowl balances sweetness and heat, offering a unique and exciting flavor combination that may inspire summer-time offerings.
**Ingredients:**
* **Base:** Cooked Rice (white or brown).
* **Protein:** Grilled Chicken (cut into cubes).
* **Mango Habanero Glaze:** (Recipe Below).
* **Toppings:**
* Diced Mango.
* Red Onion (thinly sliced).
* Cilantro (chopped).
* Avocado (diced).
**Mango Habanero Glaze Recipe:**
* 1 cup Mango Puree (fresh or frozen, thawed).
* 2 tablespoons Habanero Pepper (finely minced – use caution!).
* 1/4 cup Rice Vinegar.
* 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce.
* 1 tablespoon Honey (or maple syrup).
* 1 clove Garlic (minced).
* 1/2 teaspoon Ginger (grated).
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Mango Habanero Glaze:** In a saucepan, combine the mango puree, minced habanero pepper (start with a small amount and add more to taste, habaneros are *very* spicy!), rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), minced garlic, and grated ginger.
2. **Simmer the Glaze:** Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. **Prepare the Chicken:** Grill the chicken and cut it into cubes.
4. **Assemble the Bowl:** Place a layer of cooked rice in a bowl. Top with the grilled chicken. Pour the mango habanero glaze over the chicken.
5. **Add Toppings:** Garnish with diced mango, thinly sliced red onion, chopped cilantro, and diced avocado.
6. **Serve:** Serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Adjust the Heat:** Be very careful when handling habanero peppers. Wear gloves and start with a small amount, adding more to taste. If you prefer a milder glaze, use a milder pepper, such as a jalapeño or serrano.
* **Add Pineapple:** Diced pineapple would complement the mango flavor in the glaze.
* **Use Shrimp:** Grilled shrimp could be substituted for the chicken.
* **Add Black Beans:** Add black beans for extra protein and fiber.
* **Serve with Lime Wedges:** Serve with lime wedges for a bright and zesty finish.
## Key Considerations for Recreating Subway Flavors at Home
* **Quality Ingredients are Crucial:** Subway prides itself on using fresh ingredients, so make sure to choose the best quality produce, meats, and cheeses available. This will make a significant difference in the overall taste of your recreations.
* **Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment:** These recipes are inspired by Subway’s summer menu, but feel free to adjust them to your liking. Add your favorite ingredients, try different sauces, and create your own unique combinations.
* **Pay Attention to Presentation:** Presentation matters, even when you’re making sandwiches or salads at home. Arrange the ingredients neatly and make sure the final product looks appealing.
* **Recreate the Atmosphere:** Put on some upbeat music, invite some friends over, and create a fun and casual atmosphere to mimic the Subway experience.
* **Consider Dietary Restrictions:** Be mindful of any dietary restrictions or allergies of your guests. Offer gluten-free bread, vegetarian options, and alternative sauces to accommodate everyone.
* **Sauce is Everything:** Subway’s sauces are a key part of what makes their sandwiches so delicious. Experiment with different sauces and dressings to find your favorites. Consider making your own homemade sauces for a truly unique flavor.
* **Embrace Customization:** One of the best things about Subway is the ability to customize your order. Encourage your guests to create their own perfect sandwiches or salads by offering a variety of ingredients and sauces.
* **Fresh Herbs are Your Friend:** Fresh herbs can elevate any dish. Use fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, dill, and parsley to add a burst of flavor to your creations.
* **Don’t Overload the Sandwich/Salad:** It’s tempting to pile on all your favorite ingredients, but resist the urge to overload the sandwich or salad. Too many ingredients can make it difficult to eat and can mask the individual flavors.
* **Practice Makes Perfect:** Don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t perfect. Keep experimenting and practicing, and you’ll eventually master the art of recreating Subway flavors at home.
## Conclusion
By understanding the key elements of Subway’s summer menu and following these detailed recipes, you can easily recreate the flavors of summer at home. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, packing a picnic lunch, or simply craving a delicious sandwich, these inspired recipes will help you bring the taste of Subway to your table. Enjoy the process, experiment with different flavors, and have fun creating your own signature summer dishes! Remember to focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients, and don’t be afraid to get creative with your flavor combinations. Happy cooking (and sandwich-making)!