Mediterranean Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich

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🥪 Mediterranean Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich

Description

The Mediterranean Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich is a bold, flavor-packed classic inspired by Southern Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. Built on a large, round sesame loaf, it’s layered with savory Italian cured meats, creamy cheeses, and a vibrant olive salad bursting with herbs, garlic, and olive oil. This sandwich is known for getting better as it rests, making it perfect for gatherings, picnics, and make-ahead meals.

⏱️ Prep & Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 25 minutes

  • Resting Time: 1–2 hours (recommended)

  • Total Time: About 30 minutes active

🍽️ Servings

  • Serves: 6–8 people

  • Serving Size: 1 large wedge

🛒 Ingredients

For the Olive Salad

  • ½ cup green olives, pitted and chopped

  • ½ cup black olives (Kalamata preferred), chopped

  • ¼ cup roasted red peppers, diced

  • 2 tbsp capers, rinsed and chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil

  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar

  • 1 tsp dried oregano

  • ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Sandwich

  • 1 large round sesame loaf or muffaletta bread

  • 4 oz Genoa salami

  • 4 oz mortadella

  • 4 oz capicola or prosciutto

  • 4 oz provolone cheese, sliced

  • 4 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced

  • Optional: arugula or romaine leaves

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Prepare the Olive Salad
    In a bowl, combine olives, roasted red peppers, capers, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, oregano, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Mix well and set aside for at least 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

  2. Prepare the Bread
    Slice the bread horizontally. Hollow out some of the soft interior if desired to hold more filling.

  3. Assemble the Layers
    Spread half of the olive salad evenly over the bottom half of the bread.

  4. Add Meats & Cheese
    Layer salami, mortadella, and capicola evenly. Add provolone and mozzarella on top.

  5. Finish & Press
    Spoon remaining olive salad over the cheese. Add greens if using. Place the top half of the bread on and press gently.

  6. Rest the Sandwich
    Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil and let rest for 1–2 hours (or overnight in the fridge). This allows flavors to fully absorb.

  7. Serve
    Cut into wedges and serve at room temperature.

📝 Recipe Notes

  • Traditional muffaletta sandwiches improve with time—don’t skip the resting step.

  • The olive salad can be made up to 3 days in advance.

  • Use high-quality olive oil and deli meats for best flavor.

💡 Tips for Best Results

  • Weight it down: Place a pan or heavy book on top while resting to compress layers.

  • Bread choice matters: Sesame-crusted bread works best for texture and flavor.

  • Customize: Add sun-dried tomatoes, artichokes, or basil for a Mediterranean twist.

🧮 Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 520–580 kcal

  • Protein: 25–28 g

  • Fat: 38 g

  • Carbohydrates: 32 g

  • Fiber: 4 g

  • Sodium: High (due to cured meats & olives)

🌿 Health Benefits

  • Healthy fats: Olive oil and olives support heart health.

  • Protein-rich: Keeps you full and energized.

  • Mediterranean diet–friendly: Emphasizes healthy fats, herbs, and whole ingredients.

  • Low sugar: Naturally low in added sugars.

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?
A: Yes! Replace meats with grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and mushrooms, plus extra cheese.

Q: How long does muffaletta last?
A: Wrapped tightly, it lasts up to 24 hours refrigerated and often tastes better the next day.

Q: Can I use a different bread?
A: Yes—focaccia or ciabatta can work, but a round loaf holds layers best.

Q: Is this sandwich served hot or cold?
A: Traditionally served at room temperature or cold, not heated.

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