The Veggie Delite is a foundational menu item at Subway, known for its straightforward and customizable nature. Unlike other subs that feature a specific protein, the Veggie Delite is focused entirely on the fresh vegetable toppings. This makes it an ideal choice for vegetarians and anyone seeking a lighter, more refreshing meal. The standard build typically includes a mix of lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, green peppers, and red onions, but the beauty of ordering at Subway is the ability to personalize every aspect of your sandwich.
What are the standard ingredients?
A standard Veggie Delite, as advertised by Subway globally, is a simple yet satisfying sub. It’s essentially a salad in a sandwich form, and it's free of any meat or pre-made patty. The typical ingredients include:
- Bread: Your choice of freshly baked bread, with options like Artisan Italian or Hearty Multigrain being common base choices.
- Vegetables: Crisp lettuce, fresh tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, vibrant green peppers, and red onions are the foundation.
- Sauces and Condiments: Choices vary, but common additions include oil, red wine vinegar, and other vegan-friendly sauces.
How to customize your Veggie Delite
The flexibility of the Subway menu is the key to creating your perfect Veggie Delite. You are in complete control of the final product, from the bread to the sauces.
Bread choices
- Artisan Italian (White): A classic white bread option.
- Hearty Multigrain: A healthier, more textured choice.
- Sourdough: A zesty, tangy bread available in some locations.
Vegetable options
- Core Veggies: Lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, green peppers, red onions.
- Additional Veggies: Black olives, jalapeños, pickles, banana peppers, and spinach are all available for a flavor boost.
Sauces and condiments
- Vegan Options: For a fully vegan sub, opt for sauces like Yellow Mustard, Sweet Onion Sauce, or the simple Oil & Red Wine Vinegar.
- Non-Vegan Options: If you are vegetarian but not vegan, you can add creamy sauces like mayonnaise or ranch.
Add-ons
- Cheese: For a vegetarian option, most Subway locations offer various cheeses, such as shredded mozzarella or Swiss.
- Avocado: Adds a creamy texture and healthy fats to your sub.
Veggie Delite vs. Veggie Patty
Some Subway locations offer a "Veggie Patty" sandwich, which is often confused with the Veggie Delite. It’s important to know the difference before you order.
| Feature | Veggie Delite | Veggie Patty Sandwich | 
|---|---|---|
| Core Component | Fresh, raw vegetables only. | A pre-made, plant-based patty. | 
| Availability | Available at virtually all Subway locations. | Only available at select locations, and availability varies by region. | 
| Vegan Status | Always vegan, provided you choose a vegan bread and sauce. | The patty is now generally plant-based, but check local ingredients as it previously contained egg and dairy. | 
| Nutritional Profile | Very low in calories, fat, and high in fiber. | Higher in calories and protein than the Veggie Delite due to the patty. | 
Is the Veggie Delite a healthy choice?
By default, a Veggie Delite is a very healthy choice, especially when prepared on 9-grain wheat bread and topped with low-calorie condiments like vinegar and mustard. It provides a significant amount of vitamins, minerals, and fiber from the fresh produce. However, the nutritional profile can change drastically depending on your customization choices. Adding cheese, creamy dressings, and other toppings can increase the calorie, fat, and sodium content. For the healthiest option, stick to a multigrain bread, load up on all the fresh veggies, and use a light, vinaigrette-style dressing.
Conclusion
The Veggie Delite at Subway is a versatile and refreshing sandwich that stands as a great option for vegetarians and those looking for a healthier, meat-free meal. Its core appeal lies in its simplicity and the freedom it offers for customization. From piling on a wide array of crisp vegetables to choosing your preferred bread and sauces, you can craft a sandwich that perfectly suits your taste and dietary needs. Whether you're aiming for a low-calorie lunch or a hearty, veggie-packed meal, the Veggie Delite provides a delicious and dependable foundation. Just remember to specify your choices to ensure your sub is prepared exactly how you want it, especially if you require it to be vegan.