The chopped Italian sandwich is a delicious and easy-to-make dish packed with classic Italian flavors. Made with fresh Italian bread, a variety of deli meats like salami and ham, provolone cheese, and a mix of fresh vegetables, this sandwich is full of flavor and texture.
The addition of Italian dressing ties everything together, adding a tangy kick that makes every bite satisfying. Perfect for lunch, a quick dinner, or a picnic, this sandwich is sure to please everyone. It's simple to prepare and can be customized with your favorite toppings to suit your taste.
Table of Contents
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works because it combines a variety of flavorful ingredients that complement each other perfectly. The savory deli meats provide a rich, satisfying taste, while the provolone cheese adds a creamy, slightly sharp flavor. Fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and onions add a crunchy texture and refreshing taste that balances the richness of the meats and cheese. The Italian dressing brings everything together with a tangy, herby flavor that enhances the overall taste of the sandwich.
You should make this recipe because it's quick, versatile, and perfect for any occasion. It's easy to customize with different meats, cheeses, or veggies, allowing you to create a sandwich that suits your personal preferences. Plus, the ingredients are simple and easily available, making it a convenient option for a tasty meal. Whether you're preparing a quick lunch or feeding a crowd, this chopped Italian sandwich will impress with its fresh, bold flavors and satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Italian Bread: Italian bread provides a sturdy, chewy base that holds up well to the fillings and dressing. Substitute: French baguette or ciabatta bread can be used for a similar texture.
Salami:Salami adds a spicy, savory flavor to the sandwich, providing a classic Italian deli taste. Substitute: Pepperoni or prosciutto can be used for different flavors.
Provolone Cheese:Provolone cheese adds a mild, slightly sharp flavor and melts nicely in the sandwich. Substitute: Mozzarella or Swiss cheese for a milder taste.
Lettuce:Lettuce adds a fresh, crisp texture that balances the rich meats and cheese. Substitute: Arugula or spinach for a peppery or slightly bitter flavor.
Italian Dressing: Italian dressing brings a tangy, herby flavor that ties all the sandwich ingredients together. Substitute: Balsamic vinaigrette or red wine vinegar mixed with olive oil and Italian herbs.
Tips
- Use freshly baked bread for the best texture and flavor.
- Layer the meats and cheese evenly for a balanced taste in every bite.
- Toast the bread lightly for added crunch and flavor.
- Add sliced tomatoes, onions, or roasted peppers for extra flavor and texture.
- Wrap the sandwich tightly in parchment paper and let it sit for a few minutes before slicing to help the flavors meld together.
How to Serve
Chopped Italian sandwiches are perfect for a quick lunch, picnic, or casual dinner. They are packed with flavors from the meats, cheese, and dressing, making them a satisfying and hearty meal. The combination of fresh vegetables, tangy dressing, and flavorful deli meats makes this sandwich a hit for any occasion.
- Picnic Spread: Serve the chopped Italian sandwiches as part of a picnic spread with fresh fruit, chips, and a light dessert for a complete meal.
- Lunch Box Favorite: Pack the sandwich in a lunch box with a side of pasta salad and a piece of fruit for a tasty and filling lunch.
- Game Day Snack: Cut the sandwich into smaller pieces and serve as a finger food during game days, paired with some chips and a cold drink.
Similar Recipes
Chopped Italian Sandwich
Ingredients
- 1 loaf Italian bread halved lengthwise
- 6 slices salami
- 6 slices provolone cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- ¼ cup Italian dressing
- 4 slices ham
- 4 slices mortadella
- ½ cup sliced tomatoes optional
- ¼ cup sliced red onions optional
- ¼ cup roasted red peppers optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the halved Italian bread on a baking sheet and lightly toast in the oven for 5 minutes.
- Spread a thin layer of Italian dressing on both halves of the toasted bread.
- Layer the salami, ham, mortadella, and provolone cheese evenly over the bottom half of the bread.
- Top with shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, red onions, and roasted red peppers if using.
- Drizzle more Italian dressing over the vegetables and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the top half of the bread over the fillings, pressing down gently.
- Wrap the sandwich tightly in parchment paper and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Slice the sandwich into portions and serve immediately.
Nutrition
Notes
• Layer the meats and cheese evenly for a balanced taste in every bite.
• Toast the bread lightly for added crunch and flavor.
• Add sliced tomatoes, onions, or roasted peppers for extra flavor and texture.
• Wrap the sandwich tightly in parchment paper and let it sit for a few minutes before slicing to help the flavors meld together.