Discovering Subway’s Creamy Italian MVP Sauce
For years, Subway fans have raved about the creamy Italian dressing, and now, it's widely known as the Creamy Italian MVP Sauce. This sauce has a rich, creamy, and tangy profile that adds a zesty kick to any sandwich or salad. Its name stands for MVP, which adds to its premium appeal. The commercial version, made by T. Marzetti Co., is crafted to replicate the beloved in-restaurant taste, bringing that signature flavor straight to your home kitchen.
Key Ingredients and Flavor Profile
At its core, the Creamy Italian MVP Sauce is an emulsion of oil, vinegar, and various herbs and seasonings. The creamy texture is achieved through ingredients like soybean oil and egg yolk, while the Italian-inspired tang comes from distilled vinegar and red wine vinegar. Zesty, savory notes are added by ingredients such as Parmesan cheese, red bell peppers, and a blend of dried spices like garlic and onion. The flavor is a carefully balanced mix of herby, tangy, and savory notes, with a slight sweetness from sugar to round it out. For those with dietary concerns, checking the full ingredient list is recommended, as it contains allergens like eggs and milk due to the Parmesan cheese.
Comparing In-Store vs. Retail Creamy Italian
It is important to note that while the retail MVP sauce is made to mimic the in-store experience, there may be slight differences in ingredients or flavor profile due to formulation for shelf stability. The in-store MVP Parmesan Vinaigrette might use slightly different ratios of ingredients or fresher components, though the overall flavor inspiration is the same.
Comparison Table: Subway Dressings
| Feature | Creamy Italian MVP Sauce (Retail) | MVP Parmesan Vinaigrette (In-Store) |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Grocery stores, online retailers | Exclusively in Subway restaurants |
| Primary Ingredients | Soybean oil, water, vinegar, Parmesan cheese, red wine, spices | Parmesan cheese, vinegar, oil, garlic, mustard, herbs |
| Creaminess | Rich and creamy due to soybean oil and egg yolk | Tangy and creamy with Parmesan, may be less viscous |
| Best Used For | Salads, marinades, dips, sandwiches | Customizing sandwiches and salads at Subway |
| Preservatives | Includes preservatives for longer shelf life | No long-term preservatives needed for daily use |
| Packaging | Sealed 16 fl oz bottle | Portion-controlled dispenser |
Recreating the Flavor at Home
For those who prefer a homemade alternative or want to tweak the flavor, numerous copycat recipes exist. A simple recipe often includes a mayonnaise base, milk, white wine or cider vinegar, and Italian spices such as oregano, basil, and garlic powder. Mixing these ingredients in a blender or food processor can help achieve a smooth, creamy texture similar to the store-bought version. The key is to balance the creamy element with the tang of the vinegar and the aromatic herbs for that distinct Italian taste.
A Step-by-Step Guide to a Copycat Creamy Italian Dressing
- Gather Ingredients: Start with a base of mayonnaise and a splash of milk for creaminess. For the tang, use red or white wine vinegar. Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of sugar for balance are also essential.
- Combine: In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, milk, and vinegar until smooth.
- Season: Add the Italian herbs, garlic and onion powders, and sugar. Mix thoroughly until all seasonings are incorporated.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you want more tang, add a bit more vinegar. For a sweeter profile, a little more sugar works wonders.
- Chill: For the best flavor, refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together perfectly.
Conclusion
Subway's creamy Italian dressing, the Creamy Italian MVP Sauce, offers a delicious and tangy flavor profile that has made it a fan favorite. Whether you buy the conveniently bottled version at your local grocery store or attempt to recreate the flavor at home with a copycat recipe, this sauce is a versatile condiment for more than just sandwiches. It can be used as a marinade, a dip for vegetables, or a classic salad dressing, adding a flavorful twist to any meal.
It is clear that the distinctive taste, achieved through a blend of creamy ingredients and zesty Italian spices, has earned it a permanent spot in the hearts of Subway enthusiasts. With its official retail launch, fans no longer have to depend solely on restaurant visits to get their fix of this MVP sauce. For more information about the full range of Subway's bottled sauces, visit their newsroom.
