Mediterranean Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich

This Mediterranean-inspired Giant Muffaletta Sandwich is loaded with layers of savory meats, cheeses, and a bold olive tapenade spread. Perfect for parties, picnics, game days, or family gatherings, this oversized sandwich is bursting with Italian flavors and tastes even better after the ingredients have had time to meld together.

Ingredients

For the Olive Tapenade Spread

• 1 cup mixed olives (green and Kalamata), pitted
• 2 tablespoons capers
• ¼ cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained
• 2 tablespoons roasted red peppers
• 2 cloves garlic
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Sandwich

• 1 large round Italian loaf or muffaletta bread (about 10–12 inches)
• 6 oz sliced Genoa salami
• 6 oz sliced mortadella
• 6 oz sliced ham
• 6 oz provolone cheese, sliced
• 6 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 large tomato, thinly sliced
• ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Olive Tapenade

Add the olives, capers, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, and black pepper to a food processor. Pulse several times until the mixture is finely chopped but still slightly chunky. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread

Using a serrated knife, slice the round loaf horizontally. If desired, scoop out a small amount of the soft interior bread to make room for the fillings.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich

Spread half of the olive tapenade evenly over the bottom half of the bread.

Layer the ingredients in this order:

• Provolone cheese
• Genoa salami
• Mortadella
• Ham
• Mozzarella cheese
• Tomato slices
• Red onion
• Shredded lettuce

Spread the remaining tapenade on the top half of the bread and place it over the fillings.

Step 4: Press the Sandwich

Wrap the entire sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place a heavy skillet or cutting board on top and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 3–4 hours. This helps the flavors blend and makes slicing easier.

Step 5: Serve

Unwrap the sandwich and cut it into wedges. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Tips

• Make it vegetarian by replacing the meats with grilled zucchini, eggplant, and artichoke hearts.
• The sandwich can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance.
• Serve with chips, pasta salad, or fresh fruit for a complete meal.

This Giant Mediterranean Muffaletta is packed with bold, tangy, and savory flavors in every bite and is guaranteed to be the centerpiece of any gathering.