The Muffaletta is a classic Italian sandwich loaded with flavorful meats, cheeses, and a zesty olive salad. This giant version is perfect for sharing at gatherings, picnics, or game day events.
Ingredients
For the Olive Salad:
- 1 cup green olives, pitted and chopped
- 1 cup black olives, pitted and chopped
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
- 1/4 cup pickled giardiniera, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sandwich:
- 1 large round loaf of Italian or French bread (9-10 inch loaf)
- 1/4 lb sliced Genoa salami
- 1/4 lb sliced mortadella
- 1/4 lb sliced chicken ham
- 1/4 lb sliced provolone cheese
- 1/4 lb sliced mozzarella cheese
Directions
1. Make the Olive Salad
In a medium bowl, combine the green olives, black olives, roasted red peppers, pickled giardiniera, and minced garlic. Stir in olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight) to let the flavors meld.
2. Prepare the Bread
Slice the loaf of bread horizontally in half. If the bread is too thick, scoop out some of the interior to create room for the fillings.
3. Assemble the Sandwich
Spread half of the olive salad generously on the bottom half of the bread. Layer the salami, mortadella, chicken ham, provolone cheese, and mozzarella cheese on top of the olive salad. Spread the remaining olive salad on the top half of the bread.
4. Press the Sandwich
Place the top half of the bread on the sandwich. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Press the sandwich with a heavy skillet or a few cans on top. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve
Unwrap the sandwich and slice into wedges. Serve at room temperature for the best flavor.
Enjoy your Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich!
