There’s nothing quite like a good sandwich, especially one that packs in the flavors of Italy in every bite. This Viral Chopped Italian Sandwich has become a favorite in our household, and it’s perfect for those busy days when you need something quick, delicious, and satisfying. The idea for this sandwich came to me during a family picnic last summer. We were enjoying a sunny day at the park, and I wanted to make something that was easy to transport and eat, yet still felt special. Enter this chopped Italian sandwich—an instant hit with everyone!
The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity and versatility. You can tweak the ingredients to suit your taste. For instance, my husband loves adding a bit of extra heat with some sliced jalapeños, while my kids prefer a milder version with a bit more cheese. I also like to experiment with different dressings; a touch of creamy Caesar dressing or a splash of red wine vinegar can give it a whole new twist.
Another great aspect of this sandwich is that it doesn’t require any cooking. It’s all about layering, seasoning, and chopping. The result is a vibrant, flavorful mix that you can scoop onto an Italian sub roll or enjoy with some crispy crackers. It’s a fantastic option for a picnic, a quick lunch, or even a light dinner. Plus, it’s a fun way to get kids involved in the kitchen, helping them learn about different flavors and ingredients.
So, whether you’re planning a picnic, a casual lunch at home, or a quick snack, give this Viral Chopped Italian Sandwich a try. It’s a delightful blend of savory meats, tangy peppers, and creamy cheese—all brought together with a touch of balsamic vinegar and Italian seasoning. Enjoy!
Making the Chopped Italian Sandwich
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Ingredients
- 5-6 slices deli ham
- 2 tablespoons mayo
- 1/2 red onion, sliced thinly
- 1 tomato, sliced
- 6-7 slices provolone cheese
- 1 bag shredded lettuce
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 2 teaspoons Italian herbs
- 5-6 slices pepperoni
- Salt and pepper, to taste (for tomato slices)
- 12-15 banana pepper rings
- 1 tablespoon Italian dressing
- 5-6 slices salami
Directions
- Lay out the shredded lettuce on a cutting board.
- Add the ham slices on top.
- Layer the salami slices next.
- Place the pepperoni slices over the salami.
- Top with provolone cheese slices.
- Add the tomato slices on top of the cheese.
- Season the tomato slices with salt and pepper.
- Add the thinly sliced red onion on top of the tomatoes.
- Scatter the banana pepper rings over the mixture.
- Add dollops of mayonnaise.
- Drizzle with balsamic vinegar.
- Pour the Italian dressing over everything.
- Sprinkle Italian seasoning on top.
- Chop the entire mixture until it’s in small, bite-sized pieces.
- Serve the mixture on an Italian sub roll or with crackers.
FAQs:
Can I use different types of meat for the Viral Chopped Italian Sandwich?
Yes, you can substitute or add other deli meats such as turkey, roast beef, or even chicken. The key is to use thinly sliced meats to maintain the texture and flavor balance.
Is there an alternative to Provolone cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely, you can use other cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or even Swiss cheese. Choose a cheese that melts well and complements the flavors of the other ingredients.
What can I use if I don’t have Italian dressing?
If you don’t have Italian dressing, you can make a simple vinaigrette using olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, and Italian herbs. This will provide a similar flavor profile.
How should I store leftovers of the chopped Italian sandwich mix?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to consume it fresh for optimal texture and taste.
Can I prepare the ingredients in advance?
Yes, you can slice the meats, cheese, and vegetables ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine and chop them together.
What is a good side dish to serve with this chopped Italian sandwich?
This sandwich pairs well with sides like potato chips, a light pasta salad, or a fresh green salad. These options complement the flavors of the sandwich without overpowering it.
Chopped Italian Sandwich
Ingredients
- 1 Bag of Shredded Lettuce
- 5-6 Slices of Ham Deli
- 5-6 Slices of Salami
- 5-6 Slices of Pepperoni
- 6-7 Slices of Provolone Cheese
- 1 Tomato Sliced
- Salt & Pepper to taste for your tomato slices
- 1/2 Red Onion Thinly Sliced
- 12-15 Banana Peppers
- 2 TBSP Mayonnaise
- 1 TBSP Balsamic Vinegar
- 1 TBSP Italian Dressing
- 2 TSP Italian Seasoning
Instructions
- Spread the shredded lettuce on your chopping board.
- Layer the ham slices.
- Follow with salami slices.
- Then add the pepperoni slices.
- Arrange the provolone cheese slices.
- Place the tomato slices next.
- Season the tomato slices with salt and pepper.
- Add the thinly sliced red onion.
- Scatter the banana peppers over the top.
- Dollop the mayonnaise.
- Drizzle with balsamic vinegar.
- Pour the Italian dressing.
- Sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
- Chop everything together until it's all in small bite-sized pieces.
- Scoop the mixture onto an Italian sub roll or serve with crackers.
