Jersey Mikes Oil and Vinegar Recipe Copycat Home Subs

When I think about the Jersey Shore, one of the first things that comes to my mind is the iconic sub sandwiches from Jersey Mike’s Subs. This chain has carved out a significant place in the hearts of many across the United States with its fresh ingredients and distinctive taste. One of the defining features of their subs is the oil and vinegar dressing — a signature blend that has proven to be immensely popular among patrons.

I’ve spent time exploring the nuances of what makes Jersey Mike’s oil and vinegar recipe so beloved. It’s not just a matter of tossing together some oil and vinegar; it’s about balance and quality. The dressing is a staple that elevates the flavor of their subs, making them stand out from other offerings. Achieving the right harmony of tangy and smooth is a subtle art, and I’ve gathered insights into how this balance is perfected in Jersey Mike’s kitchens, as well as how you can replicate it at home.

History and Brand Overview

I’m excited to share the rich history of Jersey Mike’s Subs, a brand synonymous with the Jersey Shore’s vibrant sub shop culture. We’ll explore the birthplace of this established sub chain and how it became a quintessential part of the Jersey Shore experience.

The Origins of Jersey Mike’s

Jersey Mike’s Subs began as a small sub shop in Point Pleasant, New Jersey, in 1956. Founder Mike Cancro was only 17 years old when he bought the original shop, Mike’s Subs, which quickly became known for its quality ingredients and the personal touch its staff brought to sandwich making. Over time, the shop’s fame grew beyond the local community, setting the stage for national expansion.

Jersey Mike’s on the Jersey Shore

The Jersey Shore, with its beautiful beaches and local eateries, is where the original Italian sub crafted at Jersey Mike’s became a staple. Known for its fresh, made-to-order subs, the chain perfectly captured the essence of seaside dining that customers craved. As the company expanded, it maintained its Shore roots, embodying the United States’ east coast culture in each store across the country. Jersey Mike’s commitment to quality and community spirit remain the cornerstones that continue to attract patrons nationwide.

Anatomy of the Perfect Sub Sandwich

Crafting the perfect sub sandwich is an art that combines quality ingredients with careful construction. I’ll guide you through choosing the right base, layering the meats and cheeses, and finishing with the perfect blend of toppings and condiments.

Choosing the Right Bread

The cornerstone of any great sub sandwich is the bread. I opt for an Italian roll; its chewy texture and slightly crispy crust provide the ideal structural integrity to hold all the ingredients. It should be fresh and have a certain level of softness to meld with the fillings, enhancing the overall experience.

Layering the Meats and Cheeses

When it comes to the core of our sub, Italian cold cut varieties such as salami and ham are my go-to options. The key is to layer them generously yet evenly; each bite should be a harmony of flavors. Provolone cheese is my cheese of choice, offering a smooth, mild accent that complements the savory meats without overpowering them. I layer it between the meat slices to ensure its creamy texture is felt in every bite.

Toppings and Condiments

Toppings are where we introduce freshness and crunch. Thinly sliced red onion adds a sharp contrast that cuts through the richness of the meats and cheese. The crowning glory, however, is the condiment. My secret ingredient is a balanced oil and vinegar blend, inspired by the famous Jersey Mike’s Oil & Vinegar recipe. This concoction, drizzled just before serving, envelops each ingredient, marrying them together to create a sub that’s not just a sandwich, but an experience.

Jersey Mike’s Oil and Vinegar Blend

In creating the iconic taste of Jersey Mike’s subs, the oil and vinegar blend plays an essential role. I’ll guide you through crafting this simple yet impactful dressing using high-quality ingredients, ensuring a taste reminiscent of the renowned sandwich chain.

Olive Oil Blend Recipe

To replicate Jersey Mike’s oil, I start with a base of olive oil, ensuring it is of high quality to achieve the best flavor. I use a simple formula: for every three parts of oil, I incorporate two parts of red wine vinegar. This ratio creates a balanced mixture that is both tangy and smooth.

1. Measure the following into a mixing bowl:

   • 3 parts olive oil
   • 2 parts red wine vinegar

2. Whisk the ingredients together until combined to form the base of the Jersey Mike’s oil blend.

Vinegar Dressing Preparation

For the vinegar component, I ensure the red wine vinegar is robust and of good quality to impart the signature tanginess to the dressing. Making use of simple pantry ingredients, I sometimes include a touch of oregano to infuse an herbaceous note, reminiscent of Jersey Mike’s own blend.

• Combine in a mixing bowl:

  • Red wine vinegar (as measured above)
  • A pinch of dried oregano (optional)

• Stir the mixture thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly throughout the vinegar.

By mixing these components in the right proportion and using high-quality oils and vinegars, the final blend brings together the best of Jersey Mike’s oil and vinegar dressing—a staple for their subs. Keep in mind that experimenting with parts canola oil to olive oil can also yield a lighter blend, but I prefer sticking to olive oil for authenticity and depth of flavor.

Replicating Mike’s Way at Home

Creating Jersey Mike’s iconic sandwich experience at home hinges on perfecting their distinctive oil and vinegar blend. Known as “Mike’s Way,” this method includes a harmonious balance of flavors that can be achieved with simple ingredients you likely have in your pantry.

The Key Components

The oil and vinegar mixture is the heart of Mike’s Way. For a genuine taste, I use a combination of olive oil and red wine vinegar. The preferred ratio to mirror Jersey Mike’s signature zest is three parts oil to one part vinegar. In addition to these liquids, achieving the proper flavor profile involves a mix of dried oregano and salt.

Next, fresh produce plays a crucial role. Tomatoes, lettuce, and onions must be sliced uniformly for even distribution. If you’d like to serve your sandwich exactly as they do in-store, using a chopper can help ensure consistency and save you time.

Step-by-Step Guide to Mike’s Way

1. Prep the Veggies: I start by washing and slicing my tomatoes, lettuce, and onions. Using a chopper, I get that perfect, uniform cut—just the way Jersey Mike’s does.

2. Mix the Dressing: In a bowl, I combine three parts of high-quality olive oil with one part red wine vinegar. I then add a pinch of dried oregano and salt, adjusting these to taste.

3. Dressing the Sandwich: When it’s time to dress the sandwich, I drizzle the oil and vinegar blend over the veggies before layering them onto the bread. The key here is an even coat for that authentic Mike’s Way flavor every time you take a bite.

By following these steps with attention to detail, I create a homemade masterpiece that rivals the freshness and taste of Jersey Mike’s signature subs. Next time you’re tempted to head out for a sub, try creating Mike’s Way at home—it’s simpler than you might think.

Advanced Variations and Tips

When crafting the perfect Jersey Mike’s inspired sub with oil and vinegar, the key is to personalize flavors to create a gourmet experience. Here, I’ll guide you through incorporating different meats and experimenting with cheeses and toppings to elevate your sandwich.

Incorporating Different Meats

I find that a variety of Italian meats such as salami, prosciutto, and capicola, can add complex flavors to the sandwich. Roast beef also makes an excellent option for those who prefer something other than pork. For a spicy kick, adding cut-up pepperonis brings heat and savory notes that pair well with the tanginess of the oil and vinegar.

• Salami – adds a traditional Italian taste
• Prosciutto – offers a luxurious texture
• Capicola – provides a sweet and spicy balance
• Roast Beef – serves as a hearty alternative
• Pepperonis – introduces a bold spice element

Experimenting with Cheeses and Toppings

My journey with toppings begins with cheeses. A sharp parmesan cheese lends a bite that complements the vinaigrette’s acidity. To push boundaries, consider unexpected yet delightful choices like spicy chipotle peppers or tangy cherry pepper relish. Add freshness with green bell peppers.

• Parmesan Cheese – bold and flavorful
• Chipotle Peppers – for a smoky heat
• Cherry Pepper Relish – tangy and mildly sweet
• Green Bell Peppers – crisp and fresh

Storing and Serving Suggestions

When I make Jersey Mike’s oil and vinegar recipe, ensuring its longevity and taste is crucial. Here’s how I handle both storage and serving to maximize flavor and preserve freshness.

Best Practices for Airtight Storage

Storing in Airtight Containers: I always use an airtight container to store my Jersey Mike’s oil and vinegar blend. This keeps the flavors intact and extends the shelf life. For best results, I choose a glass bottle or a dressing bottle because plastic can sometimes absorb flavors, especially when storing big batches for next time.

Refrigeration: While oil and vinegar dressings can be stored at room temperature, I find refrigeration preferable to preserve the flavor, especially if I’ve made a big batch. If stored in the fridge, I ensure the mixture is brought to room temperature before serving, as cold can thicken the oil.

Serving Ideas and Pairings

Submarine Sandwiches: The quintessential use of the oil and vinegar blend is to generously drizzle it over a classic sub sandwich before serving. It coats all the ingredients evenly, giving that beloved Jersey Mike’s kick.

Salads and More: This dressing isn’t limited to subs; it works wonderfully on a fresh pasta salad. Simply toss it in right before serving to give a tangy zest to the dish. When I’m feeling creative, I also use it as a marinade for vegetables before roasting or grilling.

Jersey Mike’s Menu Favorites

When I think about Jersey Mike’s, I immediately envision their robust menu that delivers a blend of classic favorites and customizable options. Whether you’re after the familiar flavors of a well-loved club sub or the bespoke zest of their oil and vinegar blend, there’s something for every sub enthusiast.

Popular Subs and Orders

• Original Italian: Frequently cited as the best Jersey Mike’s order, the Original Italian is a culmination of provolone, ham, prosciuttini, cappacuolo, salami, and pepperoni. It’s a sub that respects tradition and never disappoints.
• Jersey Mike’s Club Sub: A harmony of premium meats including turkey, ham, and bacon, topped with Swiss cheese. It’s a sandwich that delivers on both flavor and substance.
• Favorite Sandwiches: Among the variety, the free turkey option always stands out. It’s a healthier pick that doesn’t sacrifice the taste Jersey Mike’s is known for.
• Popular Subs: The Famous Roast Beef and Provolone takes a prime spot with its freshly sliced, top-quality beef.

Menu Item	Description	Price
Turkey and Provolone Sub	Sliced roasted turkey breast with provolone cheese on a roll	$8.99
Italian Cold Cut Sub	Genoa salami, pepperoni, ham, provolone, lettuce, tomato, onions, red wine vinaigrette	$9.49
Club Sub	Turkey, ham, bacon, provolone, lettuce, tomato, mayo	$10.49
BLT Sub	Bacon, lettuce, tomato, mayo	$8.99
Veggie Sub	Swiss, provolone, green bell peppers, onions, lettuce, tomato, cucumber, salad dressing	$8.49
Philly Cheesesteak Sub	Grilled steak, onions, green peppers, mushrooms, provolone cheese	$11.49
Grilled Chicken Sub	Grilled chicken breast, lettuce, tomato, honey mustard	$9.99
Meatball Sub	Italian meatballs, marinara sauce, provolone cheese	$9.99
Tuna Sub	Albacore tuna salad, provolone cheese, lettuce, tomato	$9.49
Chipotle Chicken Sub	Grilled chicken breast, chipotle mayo, bacon, avocado	$10.99

Customization Options

• Sub In A Tub: For those seeking a lower-carb meal, any sub can be transformed into a salad-esque version known as a “sub in a tub.”
• Jersey Mike’s Oil: An essential component for many, this blend of olive oil and red wine vinegar can be adjusted per individual preference, ensuring each bite is as tangy or smooth as desired.

By focusing on what makes these items stand out—like the indulgent layering of meats in the club sub or the tangy kick of the oil in an Italian sub—Jersey Mike’s has curated a menu that caters to both classic tastes and modern preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

In this section, I’ll address some common inquiries about Jersey Mike’s famed oil and vinegar dressing, including recipes and ingredient specifics.

What is the recipe for replicating the oil and vinegar dressing from Jersey Mike’s?

To recreate the Jersey Mike’s oil and vinegar dressing, combine two parts red wine vinegar with three parts olive oil for a tangy flavor. For added authenticity, some may opt for the suggested 3:1 ratio of canola to olive oil.

Is it possible to purchase the exact oil and vinegar used at Jersey Mike’s?

Unfortunately, the exact blend of oil and vinegar from Jersey Mike’s is not available for retail sale. They use a specific mix that’s proprietary, but you can create a similar flavor profile using quality olive oil and red wine vinegar.

Which brand of red wine vinegar is used in Jersey Mike’s dressing?

Jersey Mike’s has not disclosed the specific brand of red wine vinegar they use. When making your own dressing at home, it’s best to choose a high-quality red wine vinegar for the best flavor.

What type of olive oil does Jersey Mike’s include in their oil blend?

The type of olive oil used by Jersey Mike’s has not been specified. If you’re looking to mimic their blend at home, it’s recommended to use a good quality olive oil or follow the aforementioned oil blend with canola oil as a base.

How can one create a Jersey Mike’s style ‘juice’ at home?

To make a similar ‘juice’ as Jersey Mike’s at home, mix a vinaigrette using red wine vinegar and olive oil, adjusting the ratios to taste. Drizzle it over your sandwich for that tangy kick.

What is the calorie content of Jersey Mike’s oil and vinegar dressing?

The calorie content of Jersey Mike’s oil and vinegar dressing specifically is not publicly available. However, it’s important to note that most oil and vinegar dressings are calorie-dense due to the oils used as a base.

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