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Assembling a chopped Italian sandwich step by step

Classic Italian Sandwich

A hearty, flavor-packed sandwich loaded with a selection of thinly sliced Italian cured meats, provolone cheese, crisp vegetables, and a tangy olive oil–vinegar dressing—all served on a crusty Italian roll. Perfect for a quick lunch or an impressive deli-style dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Sandwich/Deli
Cuisine Italian-American
Servings 4 sandwiches

Equipment

  • Cutting Board: For slicing meats, vegetables, and bread.
  • Sharp Knife: To achieve thin, even slices.
  • Mixing Bowl: For whisking together the dressing.
  • Spatula or Spoon: To spread and drizzle the dressing.
  • Optional: A panini press (if you prefer a warm, pressed sandwich).

Ingredients
  

  • Serves 4)
  • Bread & Cheese:
  • 4 Italian rolls or ciabatta rolls
  • 8 slices provolone cheese
  • Meats:
  • 1/2 lb Genoa salami thinly sliced
  • 1/2 lb capicola or ham, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 lb pepperoni thinly sliced
  • Vegetables & Extras:
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce romaine or iceberg
  • 1 large tomato thinly sliced
  • 1/2 red onion thinly sliced into rings
  • 1/2 cup banana peppers sliced
  • 1/4 cup pepperoncini optional, for extra tang and heat
  • A few fresh basil leaves optional
  • Dressing:
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Bread:
  • Slice the Italian rolls in half horizontally.
  • Optional: Lightly toast the cut sides of the bread on a griddle or in a pan for 2–3 minutes to add crunch.
  • Make the Dressing:
  • In a small mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, a pinch of salt, and black pepper.
  • Whisk together until well combined.
  • Assemble the Sandwich:
  • Layer the Meats & Cheese: On the bottom half of each roll, arrange a layer of Genoa salami, capicola, and pepperoni. Place two slices of provolone cheese over the meats.
  • Add the Vegetables: Top with shredded lettuce, tomato slices, red onion rings, banana peppers, and, if using, pepperoncini.
  • Drizzle & Garnish: Evenly drizzle the dressing over the layered ingredients. Optionally, add a few fresh basil leaves for an aromatic finish.
  • Place the top half of the roll over the fillings and gently press down.
  • Serve:
  • Enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor.
  • Optional: If you prefer a warm, pressed sandwich, place the assembled sandwich in a panini press for 3–4 minutes until the cheese softens and the roll crisps further.
  • Details
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes (or an additional 3–4 minutes if using a panini press)
  • Total Time: Approximately 10–15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 sandwiches
  • Category: Sandwich/Deli
  • Method: No-cook assembly (or lightly toasted/pressed option)
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Omnivore (contains gluten, dairy, and meat)
  • Keywords
  • Italian sandwich, deli sandwich, Italian meats, provolone cheese, cured meats, panini, Italian roll, fresh vegetables, quick lunch, Italian-American.
  • Nutrition (Approximate values per sandwich)
  • Serving Size: 1 sandwich (approx. 250–300g)
  • Calories: 550 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 1200 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
  • Note: These values are estimates and can vary based on the brands and exact quantities of ingredients used.

Notes

Customization: For a spicier version, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot honey.
Vegetarian Adaptation: Replace the meats with marinated grilled vegetables or plant-based deli slices, and use a vegan cheese alternative if desired.
Bread Texture: If making the sandwich ahead of time, consider keeping the dressing separate until just before serving to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
Meat Variations: Feel free to mix and match your favorite Italian cold cuts according to your taste preference.
Serving Suggestion: Pair with a side of olives, a crisp salad, or your favorite chips for a complete meal.
Keyword Italian sandwich, deli sandwich, Italian meats, provolone cheese, cured meats, panini, Italian roll, fresh vegetables, quick lunch, Italian-American.