New Orleans Muffuletta

The famous Muffuletta sandwich is a taste of New Orleans. It’s crafted using round sesame bread, layers of deli meats and cheese, and a flavorful olive salad that captures the city’s essence. This iconic sandwich is created with a round Sicilian sesame bread loaf filled generously with Italian cold cuts like salami, ham, and mortadella, combined with tangy olive salad and melted provolone cheese. Originating in the French Quarter of New Orleans, the muffuletta reflects the city’s diverse heritage. Its blend of flavors honors Italian influences and the lively spirit of the Big Easy, making it a delicious symbol of NOLA’s food culture.

Ingredients

For the Olive Salad:

• 1 cup chopped green olives, pitted
• 1 cup chopped Kalamata olives, pitted
• 1/2 cup chopped giardiniera (pickled vegetables)
• 1/4 cup chopped roasted red peppers
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Sandwich:

• 1 round Muffuletta bread loaf (or similar sturdy round bread)
• 1/2 pound thinly sliced mortadella
• 1/2 pound thinly sliced salami
• 1/2 pound thinly sliced ham
• 1/2 pound shredded provolone cheese

Instructions

Creating the Olive Salad:

1. Green olives, Kalamata olives, giardiniera, roasted red peppers, minced garlic, and fresh parsley should all be combined in a bowl.
2. Add the extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar.
3. Depending on your taste, season the mixture with salt and black pepper.
4. Make sure the ingredients are well blended by thoroughly combining them. To allow the flavors to meld, set the olive salad aside.

Assembling the Muffuletta:

1. Making a top and bottom half, horizontally slice the Muffuletta bread.
2. The bottom half of the bread should be liberally spread with the olive salad.
3. Begin layering the mortadella, salami, ham, and provolone cheese over the olive salad.
4. Carefully cover the sandwich with the top half of the bread.

Pressing and Serving:

1. Gently press the Muffuletta sandwich together to compact the layers.
2. Wrap the sandwich in plastic wrap or parchment paper tightly.
3. Refrigerate the sandwich overnight for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld and the bread to absorb the olive salad goodness.

Enjoying the Muffuletta:

1. When ready to serve, unwrap the sandwich and cut it into portions.
2. Each bite features a delicious combination of tangy olive salad, savory meats, and decadent cheese.
3. Serve the Muffuletta slices as is, or warm them in the oven if desired.

Indulge in the exquisite flavors of the Muffuletta sandwich, an authentic New Orleans masterpiece that celebrates a fusion of cultures and culinary excellence, whether for picnics, gatherings, or a delightful lunch.