Mediterranean Baked Veggie & Cheese Subs
These Mediterranean Baked Veggie & Cheese Subs are a warm, melty, and flavor-packed twist on a classic sub sandwich. Roasted Mediterranean vegetables—like bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion—are layered with garlic, herbs, tangy olives, and melty cheese inside toasted sub rolls. Finished with a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze, these vegetarian sandwiches are satisfying, easy to prepare, and perfect for lunch, dinner, or game day.
Total Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Roasted Veggies:
1 small zucchini, sliced into half-moons
1 small eggplant, cubed
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 small red onion, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Subs:
4 sub rolls or hoagie buns
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
1/4 cup sliced Kalamata olives (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing rolls)
Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Optional: balsamic glaze or a drizzle of tahini
Instructions:
Roast the Vegetables:
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Toss and Roast:
Place zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and onion on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
Assemble the Subs:
Prepare the Rolls:
While veggies roast, slice sub rolls lengthwise (without cutting all the way through). Lightly brush the inside with olive oil.
Add the Fillings:
Once veggies are done, divide them evenly among the rolls. Top with feta, mozzarella or provolone, and sliced olives if using.
Bake the Subs:
Place assembled subs on a baking tray. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 5–7 minutes until cheese is melted and bread is toasted.
Finish and Serve:
Remove from oven, drizzle with balsamic glaze or tahini if desired, and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Serve warm!
Tips
Choose the Right Bread:
Use sturdy sub rolls or hoagie buns that can hold up to the moisture from the roasted veggies and melted cheese without getting soggy.
Toast the bread lightly before assembling if you want a crispier bite.
Roast Veggies Evenly:
Cut all vegetables to a similar size for even roasting.
Spread them in a single layer—avoid overcrowding the pan so they roast instead of steam.
Melt Cheese Properly:
Bake the subs uncovered so the cheese melts evenly and browns slightly.
For extra gooeyness, use a combination of mozzarella and provolone.
Boost Flavor with Marinade:
For deeper flavor, marinate the vegetables in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for 15–30 minutes before roasting.
Serve Immediately:
These subs are best served warm and melty straight out of the oven.
Variations
Add Protein:
Add falafel, grilled halloumi, or roasted chickpeas for extra protein.
For non-vegetarian versions, add grilled chicken or turkey slices.
Herb Swaps:
Use fresh basil, parsley, dill, or mint depending on your taste.
Add a touch of za’atar or sumac for bold Mediterranean flavor.
Spread Options:
Spread hummus, tzatziki, baba ganoush, or pesto inside the rolls before filling for a creamy base.
Make It Spicy:
Add a pinch of red chili flakes to the veggies before roasting.
Include a drizzle of harissa, chili oil, or spicy tahini after baking.
Make It a Wrap:
Turn this into a warm wrap using pita or flatbread instead of rolls.
Add Pickled Elements:
Top with pickled onions, pepperoncini, or pickled turnips for a bright, tangy contrast.
Vegan Version:
Use plant-based cheese or simply skip the cheese and drizzle with tahini or vegan garlic sauce.
Q&A
Q: Can I make these subs ahead of time?
A: You can roast the vegetables ahead and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, assemble the subs and bake fresh for the best texture.
Q: Can I use other vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Try mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, spinach, or artichoke hearts—just adjust roasting time accordingly.
Q: What if I don’t have feta?
A: You can substitute with goat cheese, ricotta salata, or simply use more shredded mozzarella or provolone.
Q: How do I make this gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free sub rolls or wraps—everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Q: Can I make these vegan?
A: Yes! Use vegan cheese or skip the cheese and drizzle with tahini, hummus, or a plant-based garlic sauce.
Nutrition
Calories: ~370
Protein: ~13g
Fat: ~18g
Carbohydrates: ~40g
Fiber: ~5g
Sugar: ~7g
Sodium: ~600mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on type of bread and cheese used.
Conclusion
These Mediterranean Baked Veggie & Cheese Subs are the perfect balance of roasted richness, cheesy indulgence, and herby freshness. They’re easy to customize, great for meatless meals, and guaranteed to satisfy vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a comforting lunch, this recipe brings warm, melty Mediterranean magic straight to your plate.