Chopped Italian Sandwich

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chopped Italian Sandwich is packed with bold, savory Italian flavors and textures that will make each bite exciting. The tangy vinaigrette mixed with creamy mayonnaise coats the crunchy veggies and deli meats, while the pickled peppers add a refreshing zing. The combination of provolone and a variety of cured meats like Genoa salami and capocollo makes this sandwich irresistible. Whether you’re craving something filling for lunch or need a tasty meal to feed a crowd, this sandwich is a perfect choice.

Ingredients

• 6 Italian sub rolls
• 6 slices Genoa salami
• 6 slices capocollo
• 6 slices Calabrese salami
• 6 slices provolone cheese
• 1/3 cup banana pepper rings (from a jar)
• 3 pepperoncini (from a jar)
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cups green lettuce, chopped
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 ½ cups mayonnaise
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano (plus more for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Sandwich Fillings: Slice the Italian sub rolls open, making sure not to cut all the way through. Layer the Genoa salami, capocollo, Calabrese salami, and provolone cheese on the bottom half of each roll.
2. Add the Veggies: Top the meats and cheese with banana pepper rings, pepperoncini, and thinly sliced red onion. Then, add the chopped lettuce for some crunch and freshness.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, mayonnaise, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano until smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble the Sandwich: Drizzle the dressing over the prepared sandwich fillings, then top with the other half of the roll. If desired, sprinkle a little extra oregano on top for garnish.
5. Serve: Cut the sandwich into halves or quarters for easier serving. Serve immediately or wrap in parchment paper for a grab-and-go lunch.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add extra hot peppers or drizzle some hot sauce over the meats to give the sandwich a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the meats with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant for a vegetarian twist.
• Cheese Options: If provolone isn’t available, mozzarella, fontina, or even a sharp cheddar would work well in this sandwich.
• Additional Toppings: Add some sliced tomatoes, olives, or roasted red peppers for more flavor and color.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: While this sandwich is best served fresh, you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Be sure to keep the sandwich wrapped tightly to maintain its freshness.
• Reheating: If you’d like to warm it up, you can wrap the sandwich in foil and bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sandwich is heated through.

FAQs

Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sandwich ahead of time, but for the best taste and texture, it’s best to assemble the sandwich just before serving to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.

Can I use different types of bread?

Yes, you can substitute Italian sub rolls with hoagie rolls, baguette-style bread, or even a ciabatta loaf for a different texture and flavor.

Can I add more veggies to this sandwich?

Absolutely! You can add more veggies like tomatoes, cucumbers, or even arugula for extra freshness.

Is there a way to make this sandwich gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free sub rolls or any other gluten-free bread to make the sandwich gluten-free.

Can I replace the mayo with something else?

You can replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative, or use a vinaigrette-based dressing if you prefer a lighter option.

How do I make this sandwich less salty?

To reduce the saltiness, you can rinse the pickled peppers and banana peppers before adding them to the sandwich, or choose a low-sodium version of the deli meats.

How do I make the sandwich spicier?

Add more pepperoncini, banana peppers, or jalapeños to increase the heat. You can also spread some spicy mustard or hot sauce inside the roll.

Can I freeze this sandwich?

While sandwiches made with fresh bread and veggies are not ideal for freezing, you can freeze the deli meats and cheese separately, and assemble the sandwich when you’re ready to eat it.

What type of lettuce works best for this sandwich?

Green lettuce is ideal, but you can also use romaine, arugula, or spinach for a different flavor profile.

Can I use a different type of vinegar for the dressing?

Yes, you can substitute red wine vinegar with balsamic vinegar or white wine vinegar for a slightly different taste.

Conclusion

The Chopped Italian Sandwich is a delicious and satisfying meal that combines the savory flavors of Italian meats, cheese, and fresh vegetables. With its tangy dressing and crispy bread, this sandwich is perfect for lunch or dinner. The variety of textures and flavors, from the crunchy veggies to the creamy mayo dressing, makes each bite exciting and delicious. Whether you serve it for a picnic, a party, or a quick weeknight dinner, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

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