If you’re craving a sandwich that bursts with bold flavors and satisfying textures, the Chopped Italian Sandwich Recipe is exactly what you need. This delightful creation takes all your favorite Italian deli ingredients—salami, ham, provolone, crisp lettuce, tangy pepperoncini, and more—and chops them together for a perfectly melded bite every single time. It’s quick to prepare, vibrant, and utterly mouthwatering, making it an instant favorite whether for a casual lunch or a picnic treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients can create something truly spectacular, and this recipe is the perfect example. Each component adds its own unique twist, from the savory deli meats to the refreshing crunch of fresh vegetables and the zing of red wine vinegar that brightens the whole sandwich.
- Hoagie roll or sub bun: Choose a fresh, sturdy roll that will hold all the delicious chopped fillings without becoming soggy.
- Salami (4 slices): Adds a rich, slightly spicy flavor that’s essential for authentic Italian taste.
- Ham (4 slices): Brings a mild, savory balance to the stronger salami.
- Provolone cheese (2 slices): Offers creamy, melty goodness that ties together the meats and veggies.
- Shredded iceberg lettuce (¼ cup): Provides a crisp freshness and textural contrast.
- Diced red onion (2 tablespoons): Introduces a sharp bite and subtle sweetness.
- Diced tomato (2 tablespoons): Adds juicy, colorful brightness to the mix.
- Pepperoncini slices (4–5 slices): Bring just the right amount of tangy heat and acidity.
- Mayonnaise (1 tablespoon): Creamy binder that helps everything stick together.
- Red wine vinegar (1 tablespoon): Adds a zesty punch and depths of flavor.
- Olive oil (1 teaspoon): Enhances richness and mouthfeel.
- Dried oregano (½ teaspoon): Offers classic Italian herbal notes.
- Salt and black pepper: To taste, seasoning perfectly to your preference.
How to Make Chopped Italian Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Layer Your Ingredients
Start by arranging the slices of salami, ham, and provolone cheese on a large cutting board. Then add the shredded iceberg lettuce, diced red onion, diced tomato, and pepperoncini slices on top. This layering is important for building the layered, rustic flavors this sandwich is famous for.
Step 2: Chop It All Together
Use a large knife or bench scraper to chop the layered ingredients into small, bite-sized pieces. The chopping is what sets this sandwich apart, marrying all the distinct flavors into harmonious little bites that dance on your tongue.
Step 3: Add Dressing and Seasonings
Drizzle the chopped mixture with mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, dried oregano, and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Toss and chop repeatedly to evenly coat every morsel with the delicious dressing. It’s a fun, hands-on step that brings everything together and intensifies the flavor.
Step 4: Prepare the Bread
Slice your hoagie roll or sub bun in half. To add a touch of warmth and texture, lightly toast the bread if you like. This step helps enhance the sandwich’s contrast between crunchy bread and tender filling.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Pile the chopped filling generously onto the bottom half of the roll. Press down slightly to help the mixture hold together. Then place the top half of the bun on your glorious creation and get ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Chopped Italian Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of freshness and color, garnish your sandwich with a few fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of chopped parsley. A few extra pepperoncini slices on the side can also add a lively zing when nibbling.
Side Dishes
This sandwich pairs beautifully with classic Italian sides like a crisp Caesar salad or a small bowl of minestrone soup. For something lighter, crunchy pickles or a handful of kettle-cooked chips provide a delightful textural contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Feel free to serve this vibrant chopped sandwich in a large salad bowl for a deconstructed Italian salad or pile the mixture onto crostini for bite-sized party appetizers. Wrapping the sandwich in parchment paper creates a casual, rustic presentation perfect for picnics or on-the-go lunches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover chopped filling, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the sandwich bread from getting soggy, it’s best to keep the filling and bread separate until ready to eat.
Freezing
Because of the fresh vegetables and dressing, this sandwich is not ideal for freezing. The texture of the lettuce and tomato will suffer if frozen and thawed.
Reheating
If you prefer a warm sandwich, toast the hoagie roll separately and serve the chopped filling cold, or warm the bread and enjoy the filling at room temperature. Avoid reheating the filling to preserve its freshness and crunch.
FAQs
Can I add other meats to the Chopped Italian Sandwich Recipe?
Absolutely! Mortadella, turkey, or even capicola make fantastic additions to customize the sandwich to your taste and add exciting new flavors.
What if I don’t like pepperoncini?
Swap out the pepperoncini for banana peppers or mild pickled peppers to maintain the tangy element without the heat.
Is this sandwich gluten-free?
Not as written, since it relies on a hoagie roll. But you can easily substitute a gluten-free bun or bread to enjoy this sandwich without gluten.
Can I make this sandwich vegan?
You can try using plant-based deli slices and vegan cheese, along with vegan mayonnaise. It won’t be traditional, but still delicious and satisfying.
How long does it take to prepare the Chopped Italian Sandwich Recipe?
This sandwich is a speedy favorite, taking about 15 minutes from start to finish, perfect for busy days when you want something tasty fast.
Final Thoughts
The Chopped Italian Sandwich Recipe is one of those special dishes that feels like a warm hug wrapped in deliciousness. It’s easy to make, full of layered flavors, and endlessly versatile. I can’t recommend it enough—grab your ingredients, chop it up, and treat yourself to this Italian-American delight today!
Print
Chopped Italian Sandwich Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 sandwich 1x
Description
The Chopped Italian Sandwich is a deliciously messy and flavorful deli-style sub that combines layers of salami, ham, provolone, and fresh veggies, all chopped together and tossed in a tangy dressing. This easy no-cook Italian-American main course is perfect for a quick lunch or casual dinner, offering a satisfying mix of textures and robust flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Sandwich Ingredients
- 1 hoagie roll or sub bun
- 4 slices salami
- 4 slices ham
- 2 slices provolone cheese
- ¼ cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 2 tablespoons diced red onion
- 2 tablespoons diced tomato
- 4–5 pepperoncini slices
Dressing
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: On a large cutting board, layer the salami, ham, provolone cheese, shredded iceberg lettuce, diced red onion, diced tomato, and pepperoncini slices.
- Chop Filling: Use a large knife or bench scraper to chop the layered ingredients together into bite-sized pieces, ensuring an even mix of meat, cheese, and veggies.
- Add Dressing: Drizzle the chopped mixture with mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Continue chopping and folding the mixture thoroughly until well combined and evenly coated.
- Prepare Roll: Slice the hoagie roll in half lengthwise and toast lightly, if desired, to add a bit of crunch and warmth.
- Assemble Sandwich: Pile the chopped filling generously onto the bottom half of the roll, pressing slightly to help it hold together.
- Serve: Place the top half of the roll on the sandwich and serve immediately for best freshness and flavor.
Notes
- Feel free to add other deli meats like mortadella or turkey for a different flavor profile.
- Swap pepperoncini slices with banana peppers for a different tang.
- For a spicy kick, add a dash of hot sauce or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes into the chopped mixture.
- Lightly toasting the hoagie roll enhances texture but is optional.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-American
