Mediterranean Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich

Mediterranean Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich

Table of Contents

A bold and irresistible twist on the New Orleans classic, this Mediterranean Giant Muffaletta brings together layers of Italian deli meats, cheeses, and a punchy olive tapenade inside a crusty round loaf. Infused with sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, and fresh herbs, this giant sandwich is perfect for picnics, parties, or make-ahead lunches. It’s colorful, hearty, and bursting with savory Mediterranean flavors.

Total Time

Prep: 20 minutes
Rest (for best flavor): 1–2 hours (optional but recommended)
Total: 20 minutes active (+ rest time)
Servings: 6–8

Ingredients

For the olive tapenade spread:

1 cup mixed olives (green and Kalamata), pitted

2 tbsp capers

¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed), drained

2 tbsp roasted red peppers

2 tbsp fresh parsley

1 garlic clove

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp red wine vinegar

Black pepper, to taste

For the sandwich:

1 large round Italian or sourdough loaf (about 10–12 inches wide)

6 slices Genoa salami

6 slices prosciutto or smoked turkey

6 slices mortadella or ham

6 slices provolone cheese

6 slices mozzarella cheese

1 cup arugula or baby spinach

Optional: sliced red onions or pepperoncini for extra zing

Instructions

Make the Olive Tapenade
In a food processor, combine olives, capers, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, parsley, garlic, olive oil, and red wine vinegar. Pulse until chunky but spreadable. Season with black pepper to taste.

Prepare the Bread
Slice the round loaf horizontally in half. Scoop out some of the soft bread from the center of both halves to create room for the fillings.

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Assemble the Sandwich

Spread a generous layer of tapenade on both sides of the bread.

Layer the meats and cheeses: start with provolone, then salami, prosciutto, mortadella, mozzarella.

Add a layer of greens and optional extras like red onion or pepperoncini.

Press the top half of the bread onto the bottom to enclose everything.

Press and Chill (Optional but Recommended)
Wrap the sandwich tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Place a heavy skillet or pan on top and refrigerate for 1–2 hours to let the flavors meld and compress the sandwich.

Serve
Unwrap and slice into wedges or thick slices. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Tips

Use crusty bread: A firm, crusty round loaf (like ciabatta, Italian boule, or sourdough) holds up best to the juicy filling and prevents sogginess.

Scoop out the center: Removing excess bread from the loaf allows more room for filling and helps compress the layers for easier slicing.

Chill before serving: Letting the sandwich rest under pressure for 1–2 hours develops the flavor and helps the layers stick together.

Wrap tightly: Use foil or plastic wrap to hold everything in place, especially if packing for a picnic or trip.

Variations:

Vegetarian version: Replace meats with grilled eggplant, zucchini, roasted peppers, and hummus or marinated artichokes.

Spicy kick: Add Calabrian chilies, spicy capicola, or hot giardiniera to amp up the heat.

Cheese swap: Try Manchego, goat cheese, or sliced halloumi for a Mediterranean cheese twist.

Mini version: Make individual muffalettas using crusty rolls or focaccia squares for grab-and-go servings.

Q&A

Q: Can I make this sandwich a day ahead?
A: Absolutely! It actually improves with time. Wrap it tightly and refrigerate overnight. The flavors meld beautifully.

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Q: What’s the best way to slice it?
A: Use a sharp serrated knife. Cut in halves or wedges like a pie for a dramatic presentation.

Q: Is it freezer-friendly?
A: It’s not ideal for freezing once assembled due to moisture and texture changes, but the tapenade can be frozen separately for up to 1 month.

Q: Can I toast or warm it up?
A: Yes! Toast it briefly in a panini press or oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes if you prefer it warm.

Nutrition

Calories: ~410

Protein: 22g

Fat: 28g

Saturated Fat: 9g

Carbohydrates: 18g

Fiber: 2g

Sugar: 3g

Sodium: ~960mg

Calcium: ~15% DV

Iron: ~10% DV

Values may vary based on meat and cheese types and bread variety.

Conclusion

The Mediterranean Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich is an epic, flavor-packed showstopper that blends the rich meats and cheeses of Italy with the briny, herbaceous flavors of the Mediterranean. Ideal for group meals, road trips, game days, or casual gatherings, it’s as stunning to look at as it is satisfying to eat. Versatile, make-ahead friendly, and fully customizable, this muffaletta earns its place in any sandwich lover’s repertoire.