Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich
Ingredients
- 1 large round loaf of Italian or sourdough bread (about 10 inches in diameter)
- 1 cup olive salad mix (store-bought or homemade, see below)
- 1/4 lb Genoa salami, thinly sliced
- 1/4 lb mortadella, thinly sliced
- 1/4 lb capicola, thinly sliced
- 1/4 lb provolone cheese, thinly sliced
- 1/4 lb mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (optional)
For Homemade Olive Salad Mix
- 1/2 cup green olives, chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, chopped
- 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
- 2 tablespoons capers
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
Preparation
Step 1: Make the Olive Salad Mix (if not store-bought)
- Combine green olives, black olives, roasted red peppers, capers, parsley, and minced garlic in a bowl.
- Add olive oil and red wine vinegar, then mix well.
- Let the olive salad sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Prep the Bread
- Slice the round loaf of bread horizontally into two even halves.
- Scoop out some of the soft interior from both halves to make room for the fillings (optional).
- Drizzle olive oil (and red wine vinegar if using) on the cut sides of the bread.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
- Spread a generous layer of the olive salad mix on the bottom half of the bread.
- Layer the Genoa salami, mortadella, capicola, provolone, and mozzarella evenly on top.
- Spread another layer of olive salad mix on the inside of the top half of the bread.
Step 4: Press and Rest
- Place the top half of the bread onto the sandwich.
- Wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or foil and press it down with a heavy skillet or a few canned goods for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the fridge). This allows the flavors to meld and the sandwich to compress.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
- Remove the plastic wrap or foil, then slice the sandwich into wedges.
- Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Tips for Success
- Bread Selection: Choose a sturdy bread to hold up to the fillings and olive salad without getting soggy.
- Customize Fillings: Add your favorite Italian deli meats or cheeses to make the sandwich your own.
- Make Ahead: This sandwich tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
Variations
- Vegetarian Muffaletta: Use roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers instead of meats.
- Spicy Kick: Add a few slices of pickled jalapeños or banana peppers for extra heat.
- Mini Muffalettas: Use small rolls to create individual-sized sandwiches perfect for parties.
Why You’ll Love the Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich
- Bold Flavors: Packed with savory meats, tangy olive salad, and creamy cheeses.
- Perfect for Sharing: A great centerpiece for picnics, parties, or game day gatherings.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: The sandwich only gets better as it rests, making it stress-free for entertaining.
Enjoy your giant Muffaletta Italian sandwich! 🥖🇮🇹
