Italian Sandwich Recipe

Slice and dry

Wash the lettuce leaves and pat dry with paper towels. Slice the tomato into 1/4-inch (6 mm) rounds. Peel the red onion and slice very thinly into rings. If using roasted peppers or banana peppers, slice into strips.

In a small bowl or jar combine the extra-virgin olive oil (2 tbs), red wine vinegar (1 tbs), salt (1/2 tsp), freshly ground black pepper (1/4 tsp) and dried oregano (1/2 tsp). Whisk or shake until emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning; add up to another 1/2 tsp olive oil or a splash more vinegar if desired.

Toss the tomato slices gently with 1/2 tbs of the dressing to lightly season them and prevent them from making the bread soggy. Set aside for assembly.

Split the sandwich roll horizontally, leaving one side attached if desired for easier handling. If you prefer a toasted sandwich, lightly toast cut sides under a broiler or in a skillet until just golden (1–2 minutes).

If using mustard or mayonnaise (optional), spread it thinly on one or both cut sides of the bread (about 1 tbs total). This creates a moisture barrier and adds flavor.

Layer the cheeses and meats in this order for balanced flavor and texture: place 3 slices provolone on the bottom half of the roll, then arrange the mortadella (6 slices) folded or slightly overlapped, followed by the capicola (4 slices), prosciutto (4 slices), and sopressata (4 slices). Folding the deli slices creates height and an even bite.

Distribute the dressed tomato slices over the meats. Add the lettuce leaves on top of the tomato. Scatter the thin red onion rings and optional peppers evenly.

Drizzle the remaining dressing (about 1/2 tbs) over the top of the assembled sandwich ingredients for extra brightness. If you prefer, you can brush the remaining dressing onto the top half of the bread instead.

Close the sandwich and press gently but firmly to compact layers. If serving immediately, slice the sandwich in half on the diagonal. If packing for later, wrap tightly in parchment and refrigerate; add lettuce just before eating if you want it crisper.

Serve the sandwich whole or halved with extra pickles or chips on the side. Enjoy immediately.