- Make Olive Salad:
- In a bowl, combine the chopped olives, roasted red peppers, capers, minced garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine. Set aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwich
- Slice the Bread:
- Cut the round loaf of bread horizontally in half to create a top and bottom piece.
- Layer the Ingredients:
- Spread half of the olive salad evenly over the bottom half of the bread.
- Layer the Genoa salami, mortadella, ham, provolone cheese, and mozzarella cheese evenly over the olive salad.
- Spread the remaining olive salad over the top layer of cheese.
- Cover and Press:
- Place the top half of the bread over the layered ingredients.
- Wrap the entire sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Press and Chill:
- Place the wrapped sandwich on a plate or cutting board. Place a heavy object, such as a cast-iron skillet or heavy books, on top of the sandwich to press it down.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Serve
- Slice and Enjoy:
- Unwrap the sandwich and carefully cut it into wedges or slices.
- Serve cold or at room temperature, and enjoy the delicious layers of meats, cheeses, and tangy olive salad in each bite.
Tips for Serving:
- Make-Ahead: The Muffaletta sandwich can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This makes it perfect for picnics, parties, or a quick meal.
- Bread Options: If Muffaletta bread isn’t available, you can use a round loaf of Italian bread or ciabatta as a substitute.
- Customization: Feel free to adjust the types and amounts of meats and cheeses based on your preferences. Some variations include adding pepperoni or swapping out the cheeses for others like Swiss or cheddar.
The Muffaletta sandwich is a flavorful and satisfying dish that captures the essence of New Orleans cuisine. Enjoy this iconic sandwich with friends and family, and savor the unique blend of flavors in every bite!