Description
This Toasted Italian Sandwich is a quick and delicious meal featuring layers of salami, pepperoni, ham, and melted provolone cheese on a crusty Italian sub roll or ciabatta bread. Fresh lettuce, tomato, red onion, and optional banana peppers add a refreshing crunch, while a drizzle of olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Italian seasoning enhance the flavor. Toasted in the oven until perfectly crispy and warm, this sandwich is perfect for a satisfying lunch or light dinner in just minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Sandwich Base
- 1 large Italian sub roll or ciabatta bread
Meats and Cheese
- 4 slices salami
- 4 slices pepperoni
- 4 slices ham or capicola
- 4 slices provolone or mozzarella cheese
Vegetables and Toppings
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 4 slices tomato
- 2 tbsp red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp banana peppers (optional)
Dressings and Seasonings
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise or Dijon mustard (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it is ready for toasting the sandwich.
- Prepare the Bread: Slice the Italian sub roll or ciabatta bread horizontally to create the top and bottom halves for layering the ingredients.
- Layer the Meats and Cheese: On the bottom half of the bread, arrange the salami, pepperoni, ham or capicola, and slices of provolone or mozzarella cheese in an even layer.
- Add Fresh Vegetables: On top of the meat and cheese, add shredded lettuce, sliced tomato, thinly sliced red onion, and banana peppers if using, to provide a flavorful crunch.
- Season and Dress: Drizzle olive oil and red wine vinegar over the layered ingredients and sprinkle with Italian seasoning to enhance the taste.
- Add Condiments: Optionally spread mayonnaise or Dijon mustard on the top half of the bread for added moisture and flavor.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Place the top half of the bread over the assembled layers, then wrap the entire sandwich tightly in aluminum foil.
- Toast the Sandwich: Place the wrapped sandwich in the preheated oven and toast for 5-7 minutes, until the bread is crispy and the cheese has melted.
- Serve: Carefully remove the sandwich from the oven, unwrap, slice into portions, and serve warm for the best taste experience.
Notes
- You can substitute provolone cheese with mozzarella or any other melting cheese of your preference.
- Banana peppers add a nice tangy kick but can be omitted if you prefer a milder sandwich.
- For a spicier flavor, add a splash of hot sauce or use spicy Italian meats.
- Wrapping the sandwich in foil helps to evenly toast and melt the cheese without drying out the bread.
- Serve with a side of chips or a light salad to complete your meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven for best texture.
