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What’s On a Subway Spicy Italian? The Definitive Guide

The Subway Spicy Italian is a beloved sandwich that packs a flavorful punch. At its core, it’s a celebration of Italian-American deli classics. The standard build features a generous portion of spicy pepperoni and salami layered on your choice of freshly baked bread. But the beauty of Subway lies in its customization. Let’s delve into the core ingredients and then explore the endless possibilities.

The Foundation: Meats and Bread

The Spicy Italian’s distinctive flavor profile originates from its two key ingredients:

Pepperoni: This isn’t your average pizza pepperoni. It’s a more robust, often coarsely ground pepperoni with a noticeable kick of spice. Think of it as a fiery cousin to standard pepperoni.
Salami: Subway uses a classic, cured salami, providing a savory, slightly tangy counterpoint to the spicy pepperoni. The salami adds depth and complexity to the overall flavor.

The bread choice is crucial. Here are the most common options:

Italian White: A classic choice, offering a neutral base that lets the meats and toppings shine.
Honey Oat: The sweetness of the honey oat provides a pleasing contrast to the spiciness of the meats. It’s a popular and often recommended option.
Italian Herbs & Cheese: For those who want even more flavor, this bread adds a savory, herbaceous dimension to the sandwich.
Wheat: A healthier option offering a subtle nutty flavor that complements the Italian flavors.

The Customizable Landscape: Toppings, Cheese, and Sauces

Once the meats and bread are chosen, the Spicy Italian becomes a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.

Vegetable Toppings

Lettuce: Crisp, shredded lettuce adds a refreshing crunch.
Tomatoes: Sliced tomatoes bring a juicy acidity that cuts through the richness of the meats.
Onions: Choose between white onions (sharper bite) or red onions (milder, slightly sweeter).
Green Peppers: Adds a slightly sweet and vegetal note.
Cucumbers: A cool and refreshing option.
Pickles: Dill pickles provide a tangy crunch.
Jalapeños: If you want to amplify the heat, jalapeños are the perfect choice.
Olives: Black olives or green olives add a salty, briny flavor.
Spinach: A healthier alternative to lettuce with a slightly earthy flavor.

Cheeses

Provolone: A classic Italian cheese that melts beautifully and offers a mild, slightly tangy flavor.
Monterey Cheddar: A blend of Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheeses. This blend offers a sharper, richer flavor than provolone.
American Cheese: A milder, meltier option for those who prefer a less pronounced cheese flavor.
Shredded Mozzarella: A lighter option that adds a delicate cheesy flavor.

Sauces

This is where you can truly tailor the Spicy Italian to your preferences.

Oil & Vinegar: A simple yet effective dressing that highlights the flavors of the meats and vegetables.
Mayonnaise: Adds a creamy richness.
Spicy Mustard: Complements the spiciness of the pepperoni.
Honey Mustard: Offers a sweet and tangy counterpoint to the spice.
Sweet Onion Sauce: A popular choice, adding a sweet and savory note.
Chipotle Southwest Sauce: Adds a smoky, spicy kick.
Ranch: A creamy, tangy option.
Caesar Dressing: Adds a savory and creamy element.
Buffalo Sauce: For the bold, Buffalo sauce amplifies the heat and tang.

Building Your Perfect Spicy Italian

The key to a truly satisfying Spicy Italian is balance. Consider the interplay of flavors and textures. Do you want to emphasize the spice? Add jalapeños and spicy mustard. Prefer a sweeter profile? Opt for honey oat bread and sweet onion sauce. The possibilities are truly endless!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the Spicy Italian actually spicy?

Yes, it is. The pepperoni used in the Spicy Italian has a noticeable kick. However, the level of spiciness can be adjusted by adding or omitting other toppings, such as jalapeños or spicy mustard.

2. What are the nutritional facts for a Subway Spicy Italian?

Nutritional information varies greatly depending on the bread, cheese, toppings, and sauces used. A 6-inch Spicy Italian on Italian White bread with no cheese or sauce is approximately 480 calories, 26g of fat, 40g of carbohydrates, and 20g of protein. Check Subway’s website or app for detailed nutritional information based on your specific customizations.

3. Can I order a double meat Spicy Italian?

Absolutely! Ordering double meat is a popular way to enhance the sandwich and increase its protein content. Be prepared for a slightly higher price.

4. What’s the best cheese to pair with a Spicy Italian?

Provolone is a classic choice that complements the Italian flavors beautifully. However, Monterey Cheddar adds a bolder, richer flavor that some prefer. Ultimately, the best cheese is a matter of personal preference.

5. What sauces go well with the Spicy Italian?

Many sauces complement the Spicy Italian. Oil & Vinegar allows the natural flavors to shine, while Spicy Mustard amplifies the heat. Sweet Onion Sauce offers a delightful sweet and savory contrast, and Chipotle Southwest Sauce adds a smoky kick.

6. Can I get a Spicy Italian as a salad?

Yes! You can order any Subway sandwich as a salad. Simply request the Spicy Italian without bread and choose your desired lettuce base and toppings.

7. Does Subway offer a vegetarian or vegan version of the Spicy Italian?

Unfortunately, the Spicy Italian’s core ingredients (pepperoni and salami) are meat-based. There isn’t a direct vegetarian or vegan equivalent. However, you can build a custom vegetarian or vegan sandwich with similar toppings, such as roasted vegetables, spinach, and your choice of sauces.

8. Is the Spicy Italian available in all Subway locations?

The Spicy Italian is a standard menu item and should be available at most Subway locations. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your local Subway to confirm.

9. What’s the best way to reheat a Subway Spicy Italian?

Reheating a Subway sandwich can be tricky, as the bread can become soggy. The best method is to remove the toppings and reheat the meats separately in a microwave or oven. Then, reassemble the sandwich with fresh toppings. Microwaving the whole sandwich will work in a pinch but may affect the texture.

10. Can I add bacon to my Spicy Italian?

Absolutely! Adding bacon is a popular customization that enhances the savory flavor profile of the sandwich. Consider it an upgrade to an already delicious combination.

11. Is the Spicy Italian a good option for a low-carb diet?

The Spicy Italian, as traditionally prepared with bread, is not a low-carb option. However, you can order it as a salad or in a lettuce wrap to reduce the carbohydrate content. Be mindful of your sauce choices, as some sauces are high in sugar.

12. How does the Spicy Italian compare to other Subway sandwiches?

The Spicy Italian stands out due to its bold, spicy flavor profile. Compared to milder options like the Turkey or Black Forest Ham, it offers a more intense and flavorful experience. It’s a great choice for those who enjoy Italian deli flavors and a touch of heat.