Super Roast Beef Subs

1 (1 ounce) envelope onion soup mix
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1 cup water
1 cup chunky salsa
2 (16 ounce) Italian bread loaves
4 cups shredded lettuce
1 pound deli roast beef slices
2 tomatoes, seeded and diced
2 cups (8 ounces) shredded Colby-Monterey
    jack cheese blend

Combine first 4 ingredients in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir in 1 cup water; cover with plastic wrap, folding back a corner to allow steam to escape. Microwave at HIGH 4 to 5 minutes or until thickened, stirring once. Stir in salsa.

Slice off top one-third of each bread loaf lengthwise; hollow out bottoms of loaves, leaving 1-inch thick shells. Place 1 cup lettuce in bottom of each shell. Layer each with half of roast beef, half of salsa mixture, and remaining roast beef. Sprinkle with tomato and cheese; spread with remaining salsa mixture, and sprinkle with remaining lettuce. Cover with bread tops, and press down lightly. If desired, wrap in plastic wrap and chill.

Yield: 8 to 10 servings