Mediterranean Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich

Imagine biting into a giant crusty Italian loaf filled with layers of savory cured meats, creamy cheese, and the tangy punch of a homemade Mediterranean olive tapenade. That’s exactly what this Mediterranean Giant Muffuletta Sandwich delivers.

Originally from New Orleans, the Muffuletta sandwich was created by Italian immigrants in the early 1900s. Traditionally made with Sicilian sesame bread and an olive salad, this recipe takes it up a notch with a Mediterranean-inspired tapenade that balances salty, tangy, and sweet flavors beautifully.

This giant sandwich is perfect for sharing at gatherings, picnics, or game days. You can prepare it ahead of time, press it overnight, and let the flavors meld into something truly spectacular.

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🛒 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 cloves garlic (minced)

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar

• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Sandwich:

• 1 large Italian loaf or baguette (about 12–14 inches long, sesame crust if possible)

• 6–8 slices provolone cheese

• 6–8 slices mozzarella cheese

• 8 slices salami

• 8 slices mortadella or ham

• 8 slices capicola or prosciutto

• Optional: turkey, roast beef, or chicken slices for extra layers

• Whole green olives for garnish

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🥣 Instructions

Step 1: Make the Olive Tapenade

1. In a food processor, combine olives, capers, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, garlic, parsley, olive oil, vinegar, and pepper.

2. Pulse until chunky but spreadable. (Don’t puree too smooth—you want some texture.)

3. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread

1. Slice the Italian loaf in half horizontally.

2. Scoop out some of the inside bread to make room for fillings.

3. Spread a generous layer of olive tapenade on both halves of the bread.

Step 3: Layer the Fillings

1. Start with cheese slices on the bottom to act as a moisture barrier.

2. Add layers of meats: salami, ham, capicola, mortadella, and prosciutto.

3. Place another layer of cheese.

4. Top with more olive tapenade.

Step 4: Assemble & Press

1. Close the sandwich tightly and wrap it in foil or plastic wrap.

2. Place a heavy pan or weight on top and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight).

   • Pressing allows the flavors to meld and makes slicing easier.

Step 5: Slice & Serve

1. Unwrap, garnish with whole olives, and slice into thick wedges.

2. Serve cold or at room temperature.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Pair with red wine, iced tea, or sparkling water.

• Serve alongside crispy potato wedges or a light Mediterranean salad.

• Perfect for picnics, game days, or parties—this sandwich feeds a crowd!

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🌟 Pro Tips

• For a lighter version, use whole-grain bread and leaner meats like turkey or chicken.

• If you love spice, add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper to the tapenade.

• Make ahead—the flavor deepens the longer it sits.

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❓ Related Questions & Answers

Q1: Can I make the Muffuletta vegetarian?
👉 Yes! Skip the meats and add grilled eggplant, zucchini, roasted peppers, and extra cheese for a delicious vegetarian version.

Q2: How long does this sandwich last?
👉 Wrapped tightly in foil, it can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. The flavors only get better with time.

Q3: Do I have to use Italian cold cuts?
👉 No, you can customize it with whatever deli meats you enjoy—turkey, roast beef, or even chicken slices.

Q4: What makes Muffuletta different from other sandwiches?
👉 The key difference is the olive salad/tapenade, which gives it that bold Mediterranean flavor that sets it apart.

Q5: Can I bake the sandwich?
👉 Traditionally, Muffuletta is served cold, but you can wrap it in foil and bake at 350°F for 10 minutes if you prefer melted cheese.