Mediterranean Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich

Perfect!  A Mediterranean Giant Muffuletta (Italian Sandwich) is a bold, hearty, and flavor-packed sandwich originally from New Orleans but inspired by Italian/Mediterranean ingredients. It’s layered with cured meats, cheeses, and a tangy olive salad inside a giant round loaf. Here’s a detailed recipe for you:


 Mediterranean Giant Muffuletta Italian Sandwich Recipe


 Ingredients

For the Olive Salad (the heart of the sandwich):

  • 1 cup green olives, pitted & chopped
  • 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted & chopped
  • ½ cup roasted red peppers, diced
  • ¼ cup pickled banana peppers or pepperoncini, sliced
  • ½ cup celery, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp capers
  • ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp black pepper

(Make ahead and let it sit overnight in the fridge if possible — it deepens the flavor.)


For the Bread:

  • 1 large round Italian loaf (about 10–12 inches wide)
    (Ciabatta, focaccia, or round sourdough can also be used.)

For the Filling:

  • 6–8 slices mortadella (or ham)
  • 6–8 slices Genoa salami
  • 6–8 slices soppressata or capocollo
  • 6–8 slices prosciutto (optional for extra richness)
  • 8 slices provolone cheese
  • 6 slices mozzarella cheese
  • 4 slices Swiss cheese (optional, adds a mild creaminess)
» MORE:  A Taste of Summer – Fruit Pizza

‍ Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Olive Salad

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients for the olive salad.
  2. Stir well until everything is coated with oil and vinegar.
  3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours (overnight is best).

Step 2: Prepare the Bread

  1. Slice the round loaf in half horizontally.
  2. Scoop out some of the inside bread (to make room for filling).
  3. Brush both halves lightly with olive oil.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich

  1. Spread half of the olive salad on the bottom half of the bread.
  2. Layer meats: mortadella → salami → soppressata → prosciutto.
  3. Add cheeses: provolone → mozzarella → Swiss.
  4. Top with the remaining olive salad.
  5. Place the top half of the loaf back on.

Step 4: Press & Rest

  1. Wrap the entire sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or parchment paper.
  2. Place a heavy pan or cutting board on top and press for at least 30 minutes (or refrigerate overnight for maximum flavor fusion).

Step 5: Slice & Serve

  1. Unwrap the sandwich and cut into wedges or large squares.
  2. Serve cold or at room temperature.

️ Serving Suggestions

  • Great for picnics, parties, and game day spreads.
  • Pair with Mediterranean salad, antipasto platters, or roasted potatoes.
  • Best served with a glass of red wine, sparkling water, or Italian soda.

 Chef’s Tip: To make it more Mediterranean, you can add sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or grilled zucchini/eggplant layers.

Leave a Comment