Sub Sandwiches

National chain restaurants like Subway, Blimpies, and Quizno's have built their reputation on providing great tasting sub sandwiches. But if you are tired of paying an arm and a leg (yes, there are times when $5 per sub sandwich can actually be an arm and a leg) then why not try making your own? Before you get too discouraged, here is a great recipe that anyone can use to help feed that craving you have been having. Bon appétit!

1. Bread. Probably the single most important element of a successful sub sandwich has got to be the bread. While it may not be important on which kind (i.e., sourdough, Italian herbs, cheesy bread, white, or wheat) of hoagie-style bread you use, what is important is how fresh it is. Get the freshest, softest bread that you can find, and then slice it length wise. Once sliced, spread it out flat on a table.
2. Cheese. Choose your favorite type of deli-style cheese for your sandwich. Deli style is a must, since you can lay it down easier on the opened bread. Lay each slice down slightly staggered along the length of the bread. Some of the best cheeses to use are American, provolone, cheddar, Monterey Jack, Colby, and Gouda. What is even better is if you use a combination of these cheeses.
3. Toppings. It is time to begin placing your toppings. Start with the meats such as roast beef, pepperoni, salami, turkey, chicken, or ham. If you want a hot sub sandwich proceed to step four before continuing on with this step. If you do not want a hot sub sandwich, then proceed to place lettuce, tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, banana peppers, and olives as you wish on the sandwich.
4. Cook. If you want a hot sub sandwich, then set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, allow the oven to heat up, and then place the meat and cheese sandwich into the oven onto an ungreased cookie sheet. Remove the sandwich from the oven once the cheese melts, and continue placing the toppings on the sandwich.
5. Condiments. Once you have finished placing the toppings on your sandwich, it is time to put on the condiments. Choose your favorite combination of mayo, mustard, vinegar, oil, or even salad dressing (blue cheese can be fantastic) and put them onto the sandwich.
6. Seasonings. The final touch is placing some seasoning onto your sandwich. Basic seasoning would be to sprinkle a little salt and pepper onto the sandwich. But putting Parmesan cheese, Italian seasonings, and other kinds of seasoning to taste will greatly enhance your dining experience.