Vegan Meatball Sub Recipe

Welcome to my vegan meatball sub recipe! If you're looking for a delicious plant-based twist on a classic comfort food, you've come to the right place. This recipe is packed with flavor and is sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you're a seasoned vegan or simply looking to try something new, this recipe is a winner.

What You'll Need
Before getting started, gather all the ingredients you'll need to make this vegan meatball sub. I'll provide a list of both the meatball and sub components, so you can prepare everything in advance.

Meatball Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked lentils
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if desired)
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 5 tablespoons water (flax egg)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Sub Ingredients:

• 4 sub rolls
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded vegan mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves

Making the Vegan Meatballs
In this section, I will guide you through the step-by-step process of making delicious vegan meatballs. By following these instructions, you will be able to achieve the perfect texture and taste for your plant-based meatballs.
Ingredients:

• 1 cup of cooked lentils
• 1 cup of breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup of chopped onions
• 2 cloves of minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of nutritional yeast
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, chopped onions, minced garlic, tomato paste, soy sauce, nutritional yeast, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and fresh parsley.
2. Using a fork or your hands, mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
3. Take a small portion of the mixture and shape it into a ball using your hands. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of oil.
5. Carefully place the vegan meatballs in the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides.
6. Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Now that you've made the vegan meatballs, you can proceed to the next section to learn how to assemble your delicious meatball sub.

Assembling the Sub

Now that the vegan meatballs are ready, it's time to assemble the mouthwatering vegan meatball sub. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious sandwich that will satisfy your cravings.

1. Start by selecting a soft sub roll. You can choose a whole wheat or gluten-free option depending on your preference.
2. Spread a generous amount of marinara sauce onto the bottom half of the sub roll. This will provide a flavorful base for your meatball sub.
3. Place the vegan meatballs onto the sauce. Depending on the size of your roll, you can fit 3-4 meatballs for the perfect ratio of flavors.
4. Add your favorite toppings. You can layer on some slices of dairy-free cheese, sautéed onions and peppers, or even some fresh baby spinach for added freshness.
5. Finish off your vegan meatball sub by adding another dollop of marinara sauce on top of the meatballs. This will ensure every bite is full of rich tomato flavor.
6. Finally, place the top half of the sub roll over the meatballs and toppings, completing your assembled vegan meatball sub.

Now that your sub is assembled, you can either enjoy it as is or lightly toast it in the oven for a warm, melty treat. Pair it with a side of oven-baked fries or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Experiment with different toppings and sauces to create your own unique variations of the vegan meatball sub. Whether you prefer a spicy kick or a tangy twist, the possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions
In this section, I'll share some serving suggestions to enhance your vegan meatball sub experience. Whether you're looking to add some extra flavors or complement your sub with a refreshing side, these ideas will take your meal to the next level.
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1. Add a Side Salad
Pair your vegan meatball sub with a fresh and crisp side salad for a complete and nutritious meal. Opt for mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing to balance out the rich flavors of the meatballs.
2. Experiment with Sauces
Elevate your vegan meatball sub by adding a variety of sauces. Try drizzling some creamy vegan aioli, tangy barbecue sauce, or spicy sriracha mayo for an extra kick. The combination of flavors will tantalize your taste buds and add a delicious twist to your sub.
3. Top with Vegan Cheese
If you're a fan of cheesy goodness, sprinkle some vegan cheese over your meatball sub before toasting it. The melty, gooey texture will beautifully complement the savory meatballs and add an irresistible taste to every bite.
4. Toast it to Perfection
For an extra layer of flavor and crunch, toast your vegan meatball sub in the oven or on a sandwich press. The heat will elevate the taste and texture of the sub, making it even more satisfying to bite into.
5. Serve with Pickles
Add a tangy and refreshing element to your vegan meatball sub by serving it with pickles on the side. The pickles' briny and acidic flavors will cut through the richness of the sub, creating a well-balanced and enjoyable eating experience.

• Add a side salad
• Experiment with sauces
• Top with vegan cheese
• Toast it to perfection
• Serve with pickles

Variations and Modifications
Creating your own unique twists on a classic recipe like a vegan meatball sub is a fun and creative way to enjoy this delicious dish. Here are some variations and modifications you can make to personalize your vegan meatball sub:

1. Spice it Up
Add different spices to your vegan meatball mixture to give it a unique flavor profile. Try options like smoked paprika, cumin, or Italian seasoning to add a spicy or Mediterranean twist to your meatballs. You can also buy ready made vegan meatballs.

2. Veggie Power
Experiment with incorporating additional veggies into your vegan meatball mixture. Finely chopped mushrooms, grated zucchini, or shredded carrots can add extra moisture, texture, and nutritional value to your meatballs.

3. Alternative Binders
If you're looking for alternatives to traditional binders like breadcrumbs or flax eggs, you can try using cooked quinoa, oats, or mashed beans. These options can provide a slightly different texture and flavor to your vegan meatballs.

4. Cheese Please
If you're a cheese lover, consider adding some vegan cheese into your meatball mixture. Whether it's grated vegan mozzarella or crumbled feta, the melted cheese inside the meatballs will add a delicious gooeyness to every bite.

5. Saucy Options
While marinara sauce is a classic choice for a vegan meatball sub, you can experiment with different sauces to switch up the flavors. Try a spicy sriracha mayo, a tangy barbecue sauce, or a creamy avocado aioli to elevate your sandwich.

6. Gluten-Free Options
If you're following a gluten-free diet, make sure to use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats in your meatball mixture. You can also swap out regular sub rolls for gluten-free buns, lettuce wraps, or even gluten-free tortillas for a unique twist on the classic sub.

​These are just a few ideas to get you started, but feel free to get creative and tailor your vegan meatball sub recipe to your own preferences. The possibilities are endless, so have fun experimenting and enjoy the delicious results!

​Tips and Tricks
When it comes to making a delicious vegan meatball sub, there are a few tips and tricks that can take your dish to the next level. Paying attention to cooking techniques, storage recommendations, and flavor-enhancing suggestions can make all the difference in creating a satisfying plant-based meal.

First, let's talk about cooking techniques. To achieve perfectly cooked vegan meatballs, it's important to bake them in the oven instead of frying. This helps them retain their shape and texture while reducing the amount of oil used. Preheating the baking sheet and flipping the meatballs halfway through cooking will ensure even browning.

Now, let's discuss storage recommendations. If you have leftovers or want to make the meatballs in advance, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, try using a toaster oven or a stovetop skillet to retain the meatballs' crispiness.

To maximize the flavor of your vegan meatball sub, consider adding some additional toppings. Fresh basil leaves, sliced tomatoes, and dairy-free cheese can elevate your sandwich to new heights. Additionally, serving it with a side of homemade marinara sauce for dipping is a game-changer!