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)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Olive Salad
- In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients for the olive salad.
- Stir well until everything is coated with oil and vinegar.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours (overnight is best).
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
- Slice the round loaf in half horizontally.
- Scoop out some of the inside bread (to make room for filling).
- Brush both halves lightly with olive oil.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
- Spread half of the olive salad on the bottom half of the bread.
- Layer meats: mortadella → salami → soppressata → prosciutto.
- Add cheeses: provolone → mozzarella → Swiss.
- Top with the remaining olive salad.
- Place the top half of the loaf back on.
Step 4: Press & Rest
- Wrap the entire sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or parchment paper.
- 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
- Unwrap the sandwich and cut into wedges or large squares.
- 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.