Description
This Italian-style round sandwich, also known as an Italian muffuletta, is a flavorful combination of Italian cold cuts, cheeses, and tangy olive tapenade layered inside a round loaf of bread. The sandwich is brushed with a herbed olive oil and vinegar mixture, then chilled to allow the bold flavors to meld beautifully. Perfect for a make-ahead lunch or picnic, it offers a satisfying and hearty Italian deli experience in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread and Dressing
- 1 large round loaf of Italian bread (or Sicilian sesame bread)
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Cold Cuts and Cheeses
- 8 oz Genoa salami, sliced
- 8 oz mortadella, sliced
- 4 oz provolone cheese, sliced
- 4 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
Toppings
- ½ cup olive tapenade (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- ¼ cup green olives, sliced
Instructions
- Prep the Bread: Slice the round loaf in half horizontally to create a top and bottom half. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, dried basil, crushed red pepper flakes, and garlic powder to make the herbed dressing. Brush this mixture generously on the cut sides of both bread halves to impart flavor.
- Assemble the Sandwich: On the bottom half of the bread, layer the sliced Genoa salami, mortadella, provolone cheese, mozzarella cheese, followed by the olive tapenade, roasted red peppers, and green olives. Once all ingredients are layered, place the top half of the bread over the fillings and gently press down to compact the sandwich slightly.
- Let the Flavors Meld: Wrap the entire sandwich tightly in plastic wrap to hold its shape and prevent drying out. Place it in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour; for optimal flavor fusion, you can refrigerate it overnight.
- Serve & Enjoy: Remove the sandwich from the refrigerator and unwrap it. Slice into wedges or portions as desired. Serve at room temperature to fully appreciate the melded flavors and enjoy this classic Italian deli-inspired sandwich.
Notes
- This sandwich is best prepared at least 1 hour ahead to allow the flavors to meld properly; overnight refrigeration enhances the taste even more.
- You can use store-bought olive tapenade or make your own for a more personalized flavor.
- Sicilian sesame bread is traditional, but any sturdy Italian round loaf will work well.
- Serve room temperature rather than cold for the best flavor experience.
- Wrap tightly to maintain the sandwich’s shape and keep the bread from drying out during refrigeration.
