Description
The Classic Italian Muffuletta Sandwich is a delicious, hearty sandwich originating from New Orleans, featuring layers of Italian cold cuts, cheeses, and a flavorful olive tapenade spread on a round Italian loaf. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or picnic, this sandwich balances savory meats with tangy, herby flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread
- 1 large round loaf of Italian bread (Muffuletta bread, or ciabatta/focaccia as alternatives)
Spread
- 1/2 cup olive tapenade (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 1/4 cup green olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Meats
- 1/4 lb Genoa salami, thinly sliced
- 1/4 lb ham, thinly sliced
- 1/4 lb mortadella, thinly sliced
Cheeses
- 1/4 lb provolone cheese, thinly sliced
- 1/4 lb mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread and Spread: Slice the round Italian loaf horizontally to create a top and bottom half. Spread the olive tapenade evenly over the cut surfaces of both halves.
- Add the Roasted Peppers and Olives: Layer the sliced roasted red peppers and green olives on top of the tapenade for additional flavor and texture.
- Layer the Meats: On the bottom half of the bread, neatly arrange the thinly sliced Genoa salami, ham, and mortadella in an even layer.
- Add the Cheeses: Place the provolone and mozzarella slices evenly over the arranged cold cuts.
- Season the Sandwich: Drizzle olive oil and red wine vinegar over the assembled ingredients. Sprinkle dried oregano, dried basil, crushed red pepper flakes, and garlic powder evenly to enhance the flavors.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Place the top half of the loaf onto the layered bottom half, gently pressing down to secure the ingredients.
- Let it Rest: For an intensified flavor, wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight before serving.
- Serve: Slice the Muffuletta into four portions and serve chilled or at room temperature. Optionally, add lettuce or tomatoes if desired, though these are not traditional.
Notes
- To intensify the flavors, allow the sandwich to rest overnight refrigerated.
- Customize the sandwich by adjusting cold cuts and cheeses according to your preference or availability.
- Additions such as lettuce or tomatoes can be included but are not traditional to a Muffuletta sandwich.
- Use a sturdy Italian loaf like Muffuletta bread for the best texture and structural integrity.
- Homemade olive tapenade can enhance the authenticity and freshness of the sandwich.
