The Chopped Italian Sandwich is a delicious and satisfying meal, perfect for lunch or a casual dinner. This sandwich features a mix of flavorful Italian cold cuts, creamy provolone cheese, and a fresh blend of vegetables, all finely chopped and tossed in a tangy dressing. The combination of Genoa salami, capocollo, Calabrese salami, and provolone cheese creates a harmonious balance of flavors, complemented by the crispness of lettuce and the tanginess of banana peppers and pepperoncinis. Let's explore the ingredients that make this sandwich a crowd-pleaser.
INGREDIENTS
- Sub Rolls: 6 Italian sub rolls. The perfect base for holding the delicious fillings, providing a crusty exterior and soft interior.
- Genoa Salami: 6 slices. A mild and slightly tangy salami, adding a classic Italian flavor.
- Capocollo: 6 slices. A cured meat with a rich, smoky flavor.
- Calabrese Salami: 6 slices. A spicier salami that adds a hint of heat to the sandwich.
- Provolone Cheese: 6 slices. A creamy and mild cheese that complements the meats perfectly.
- Banana Pepper Rings: ⅓ cup, from a jar. Adds a tangy and slightly spicy kick.
- Pepperoncinis: 3, from a jar. Provide a mild heat and a burst of flavor.
- Red Onion: 1, finely chopped. Adds a sharp and slightly sweet taste.
- Green Lettuce: 2 cups, chopped. Provides a fresh and crisp texture.
- Red Wine Vinegar: 2 tablespoons. Adds acidity and brightens the flavors.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. A rich and fruity oil that binds the ingredients together.
- Mayonnaise: 1 ½ cups. Adds creaminess and a smooth texture to the filling.
- Salt: ½ teaspoon. Enhances the overall flavor.
- Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon, coarse. Adds a bit of spice and complexity.
- Dried Oregano: 2 teaspoons, plus more for garnish. A classic Italian herb that ties all the flavors together.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables and Peppers
- Begin by removing the seeds from the pepperoncinis and discarding them. Finely chop the banana pepper rings, pepperoncinis, red onion, and green lettuce. These ingredients add a fresh and tangy component to the sandwich, balancing the richness of the meats and cheese. Place the chopped vegetables and peppers in a large mixing bowl.
- Step 2: Chop the Meats and Cheese
- Next, chop the Calabrese salami, Genoa salami, capocollo, and provolone cheese into small, bite-sized pieces. This ensures that every bite of the sandwich is filled with a perfect mix of flavors. Add the chopped meats and cheese to the mixing bowl with the vegetables.
- Step 3: Combine and Season
- Add the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano to the bowl. These ingredients create a creamy and tangy dressing that coats the chopped ingredients, bringing everything together. Use a wooden spoon to thoroughly mix all the sandwich components until well combined. The dressing not only adds flavor but also helps to keep the filling moist and cohesive.
- Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich
- Scoop generous portions of the chopped sandwich mixture into the Italian sub rolls. Make sure to evenly distribute the filling for a balanced taste in every bite. For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle a pinch of dried oregano on top of the filling as a garnish. This touch of oregano enhances the Italian flavors and adds a bit of visual appeal.
- Step 5: Serve
- Serve the Chopped Italian Sandwiches immediately for the best texture and flavor. The crisp vegetables, tangy dressing, and hearty meats create a delicious combination that is sure to satisfy. These sandwiches are perfect for a quick lunch, a casual dinner, or a picnic. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and satisfying crunch in every bite!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the Chopped Italian Sandwiches fresh, as they taste best when the ingredients are crisp and the bread is not soggy. They make an excellent choice for a quick lunch or a party platter.
- If you want to prepare these sandwiches in advance, keep the filling and the rolls separate until ready to serve. This will help prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
- Leftover sandwich filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, add a little extra mayonnaise or olive oil before serving, as the mixture may dry out slightly in the fridge.
- These sandwiches pair well with a side of chips, a fresh salad, or a bowl of soup for a complete meal. Consider serving with a variety of pickles and olives for added flavor and variety.
Helpful Notes
- For a spicier kick, add more pepperoncinis or a dash of red pepper flakes to the filling.
- If you prefer a lighter option, use a low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt in place of regular mayonnaise.
- You can also add other favorite Italian ingredients such as roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh basil for additional flavor.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Giada De Laurentiis suggests using freshly baked Italian rolls for the best texture and flavor. The bread should be crusty on the outside and soft on the inside.
- Chef Lidia Bastianich recommends adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for an extra layer of tanginess and depth of flavor.
- Chef Mario Batali advises slicing the sandwich filling ingredients finely to ensure even distribution and a balanced flavor in every bite.