The Muffaletta Italian Sandwich is a legendary New Orleans classic that delivers bold, briny, and savory flavors in every bite. Built on sturdy round bread and layered generously with cured meats, cheese, and a zesty olive salad, this sandwich is hearty, satisfying, and unmistakably iconic.
What truly defines a great muffaletta is the olive salad. A vibrant mix of olives, pickled vegetables, garlic, herbs, and olive oil creates a tangy, aromatic spread that soaks beautifully into the bread. It provides balance and brightness that cuts through the richness of the meats and cheese.
The layers of mortadella, salami, and ham or capicola bring depth and variety, while provolone adds a creamy, slightly sharp finish. Pressed together, the sandwich becomes greater than the sum of its parts, with flavors melding as it rests.
One of the best things about a muffaletta is that it improves with time. Letting it sit allows the olive oil and juices to permeate the bread, creating a cohesive, flavor-packed sandwich that is perfect for sharing.
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Whether served for lunch, picnics, or casual gatherings, this Italian-American classic is bold, filling, and endlessly crave-worthy.
Servings: 4 hearty servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 large round Italian loaf or sesame bread, sliced horizontally
- ½ pound mortadella, sliced
- ½ pound salami, sliced
- ½ pound ham or capicola, sliced
- ½ pound provolone cheese, sliced
- ¼ cup olive oil, optional drizzle
Olive Salad
- 1 cup green olives, chopped
- ½ cup kalamata olives, chopped
- ¼ cup giardiniera, chopped
- 2 tablespoons capers
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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