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A delicious plate of Classic Italian Muffuletta Sandwich

Classic Italian Muffuletta Sandwich

A hearty, pressed Italian sandwich layered with various cured meats, cheeses, and a tangy olive salad, perfect for sharing at gatherings or a substantial meal.
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Prep Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Pressing and Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Dish, Sandwich
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 750
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 loaf large round sesame Italian bread about 10 inches, for a traditional muffuletta
  • 1 cup olive salad homemade or store-bought, preferably prepared overnight for best flavor
  • 0.25 lb Genoa salami thinly sliced for easy layering and flavor distribution
  • 0.25 lb capicola or ham choose your preference, thinly sliced for the meat layers
  • 0.25 lb mortadella thinly sliced for delicate texture and flavor
  • 0.25 lb provolone cheese sliced, provides a sharp, tangy complement to the meats
  • 0.25 lb mozzarella cheese sliced, adds a milder, creamier texture to the sandwich

Equipment

  • Sharp Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Plastic Wrap
  • Heavy Object (for pressing)

Method
 

  1. Prepare the olive salad ahead of time (preferably overnight) by combining chopped green and black olives, pickled vegetables, capers, garlic, parsley, olive oil, and vinegar.
  2. Slice the round loaf horizontally. Hollow out some of the inner bread if desired.
  3. Spread half of the olive salad over the bottom half of the bread.
  4. Layer the meats: mortadella, capicola, and Genoa salami.
  5. Add provolone and mozzarella cheese slices.
  6. Spoon the remaining olive salad on top.
  7. Close the sandwich with the top bread half and wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
  8. Press the sandwich with a heavy object and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours or overnight.
  9. Slice into wedges and serve at room temperature or slightly warmed.

Notes

The pressing time is crucial for the flavors to meld beautifully and for the sandwich to hold its shape when sliced. For an authentic and deeply flavorful experience, allow it to press overnight. Feel free to experiment with other Italian cold cuts or cheeses to customize your muffuletta.