Chopped Italian sandwiches are my new favorite!
INGREDIENTS
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6 sub rolls Italian
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6 Slices Genoa salami
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6 Slices capocollo
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6 Slices salami Calabrese
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6 Slices provolone cheese
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⅓ Cup banana pepper rings from jar
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3 Pepperoncinis from jar
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1 red onion
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2 Cups green lettuce chopped
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2 Tablespoon red wine vinegar
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2 Tablespoon extra virgin Olive oil
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1 ½ Cups mayonnaise
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½ Teaspoon salt
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1 Teaspoon black pepper coarse
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2 Teaspoon oregano dried, plus more for garnish
INSTRUCTIONS
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Remove seeds from pepperoncinis and discard. Finely chop banana peppers, pepperoncinis, red onion, and lettuce. Add to a large mixing bowl.
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Next, chop calabrese salami, Genoa salami, capocollo, and provolone cheese into small pieces. Add to the mixing bowl.
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Add Mayo, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, pepper, and oregano to the bowl.
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Use a wooden spoon and thoroughly mix chopped sandwich ingredients until well combined.
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Scoop into the sub rolls and top with a pinch of oregano
Tips To achieve delicious Chopped Italian sandwiches :
Choose High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality meats, cheeses, and fresh produce to ensure the best flavor and texture.
- Balance the Flavors: The combination of salty meats, tangy pickled peppers, creamy mayo, and aromatic herbs creates a harmonious flavor profile. Taste as you mix and adjust the seasoning as needed to achieve the perfect balance.
- Prep Ingredients Uniformly: Chop all the ingredients into similar-sized pieces to ensure even distribution of flavors in each bite.
- Mix Thoroughly: Use a large mixing bowl and a wooden spoon to thoroughly mix all the chopped ingredients and dressing. This ensures that every component is well coated with the flavorful dressing.
- Let Flavors Marinate: Allow the chopped ingredients to sit in the dressing for a little while before assembling the sandwiches. This allows the flavors to meld together and develop.
- Choose the Right Bread: Opt for fresh, crusty Italian sub rolls that can hold up to the hearty filling without getting soggy.
- Garnish Thoughtfully: Finish off the sandwiches with a sprinkle of dried oregano for a burst of herbal flavor and visual appeal.
By following these tips, you can create irresistibly flavorful Chopped Italian sandwiches that will become a new favorite for your family and friends.
To achieve the perfect Chopped Italian sandwich, here are some secrets to consider:
- Quality Ingredients: Start with high-quality meats like Genoa salami, capicola, and salami Calabrese, along with fresh provolone cheese. Fresh, crunchy vegetables like lettuce, red onions, and tangy banana peppers add texture and flavor.
- Balanced Flavors: Create a well-balanced flavor profile by combining salty meats with tangy pickled peppers, creamy mayo, and aromatic oregano. Adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and other seasonings to taste.
- Consistent Chopping: Ensure all ingredients are chopped uniformly to ensure even distribution of flavors and textures throughout the sandwich.
- Thorough Mixing: Mix the chopped ingredients and dressing thoroughly to ensure every component is well coated with flavor. This helps prevent any dry or bland bites.
- Let it Marinate: Allow the mixed ingredients to marinate for a short time before assembling the sandwiches. This allows the flavors to meld together and develop, enhancing the overall taste.
- Choose the Right Bread: Use fresh, crusty Italian sub rolls that can hold up to the hearty filling without becoming soggy.
- Garnish with Oregano: Finish off the sandwiches with a sprinkle of dried oregano for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.
- Serve Fresh: Enjoy the sandwiches immediately after assembly for the best taste and texture.
By following these secrets, you can create the perfect Chopped Italian sandwiches that are bursting with flavor and sure to impress.
Popular questions and their answers related to Chopped Italian sandwiches:
- What are Chopped Italian sandwiches?
- Chopped Italian sandwiches are hearty, flavorful sandwiches made with a combination of Italian deli meats, cheeses, vegetables, and seasonings, typically served on crusty Italian sub rolls.
- What meats are commonly used in Chopped Italian sandwiches?
- Common meats used in Chopped Italian sandwiches include Genoa salami, capocollo, salami Calabrese, and sometimes mortadella or prosciutto.
- What cheeses are typically found in Chopped Italian sandwiches?
- Provolone cheese is commonly used in Chopped Italian sandwiches for its mild flavor and melting properties.
- What vegetables are included in Chopped Italian sandwiches?
- Common vegetables include chopped lettuce, thinly sliced red onions, banana pepper rings, and pepperoncinis for a tangy kick.
- What condiments are used to flavor Chopped Italian sandwiches?
- A mixture of mayo, red wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, salt, pepper, and dried oregano is often used to dress the sandwich filling.
- How should I chop the ingredients for a Chopped Italian sandwich?
- It’s best to chop the ingredients finely and uniformly to ensure even distribution of flavors and textures throughout the sandwich.
- Can I make Chopped Italian sandwiches ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the chopped filling ahead of time and assemble the sandwiches just before serving to prevent the bread from getting soggy.
- Are Chopped Italian sandwiches served cold or hot?
- Chopped Italian sandwiches are typically served cold or at room temperature, making them perfect for picnics, parties, or packed lunches.
- Can I customize the ingredients in a Chopped Italian sandwich?
- Yes, feel free to customize the ingredients based on personal preference. You can add or omit ingredients to suit your taste.
- Are Chopped Italian sandwiches suitable for vegetarians?
- While traditional Chopped Italian sandwiches contain meat, you can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the meat and adding more vegetables or cheese.
- What are some popular variations of Chopped Italian sandwiches?
- Some popular variations include adding additional toppings like sliced tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or olives, or using different types of bread such as ciabatta or focaccia.
- Can I make Chopped Italian sandwiches in advance for a party?
- Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the sandwiches just before serving to maintain freshness.
- How long do Chopped Italian sandwiches last in the refrigerator?
- Chopped Italian sandwiches can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days, but they are best enjoyed fresh.
- Can I make Chopped Italian sandwiches with gluten-free ingredients?
- Yes, you can use gluten-free bread or wraps and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free to make a gluten-free version of Chopped Italian sandwiches.
- What drinks pair well with Chopped Italian sandwiches?
- Italian sodas, sparkling water, or a glass of Chianti wine complement the flavors of Chopped Italian sandwiches nicely.
- Are Chopped Italian sandwiches kid-friendly?
- Yes, Chopped Italian sandwiches are kid-friendly and can be a great option for school lunches or family picnics.
- Can I add a spread like pesto to my Chopped Italian sandwich?
- Yes, you can add pesto or other spreads to customize the flavor of your Chopped Italian sandwich.
- Are Chopped Italian sandwiches high in calories?
- The calorie content of Chopped Italian sandwiches can vary depending on the ingredients used, but they tend to be quite hearty and satisfying.
- Are there healthier alternatives to traditional Chopped Italian sandwiches?
- Yes, you can make healthier versions of Chopped Italian sandwiches by using leaner meats, reduced-fat cheese, and whole grain bread or wraps.
- Can I serve Chopped Italian sandwiches as appetizers at a party?
- Yes, you can make mini Chopped Italian sandwiches using slider buns or small rolls for bite-sized appetizers that are perfect for parties.