🥪 The Italian Sandwich (sometimes called an “Italian sub” or “hero”) is a hearty classic layered with cured meats, cheeses, and crisp veggies, usually finished with oil, vinegar, and herbs on crusty bread. Below is a detailed recipe with options to customize it the way you like.

Classic Italian Sandwich Recipe

Ingredients (makes 2 large sandwiches)

• Bread: 1 Italian sub roll or baguette (about 12 inches, split lengthwise)

• Meats (thinly sliced):

  • 4 slices Genoa salami

  • 4 slices capicola (or prosciutto, if preferred)

  • 4 slices mortadella (or ham)

  • 4 slices pepperoni

• Cheese: 4 slices provolone (sharp or mild, your choice)

• Vegetables:

  • 1 small tomato, thinly sliced

  • ½ small red onion, thinly sliced

  • ½ cup shredded iceberg lettuce

  • 6–8 slices of pickled banana peppers (optional but traditional)

  • 4–6 slices cucumber or roasted red peppers (optional)

• Seasoning & Dressing:

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano

  • ½ teaspoon dried basil

  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

  • Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the bread

   • Slice the roll or baguette lengthwise, leaving a hinge on one side so it opens like a book.

   • Lightly toast if you want extra crunch.

2. Layer the meats & cheese

   • Start with provolone on the bottom (this keeps the bread from getting soggy).

   • Layer salami, capicola, mortadella, and pepperoni evenly across the bread.

   • Add another slice of provolone if you like extra cheesy sandwiches.

3. Add the veggies

   • Place sliced tomato over the meats.

   • Scatter onion slices, then add shredded lettuce.

   • Tuck in banana peppers and cucumber/roasted red peppers for brightness and crunch.

4. Season & dress

   • Drizzle olive oil and red wine vinegar evenly across the top.

   • Sprinkle oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and black pepper.

5. Assemble

   • Close the sandwich firmly, pressing it down slightly.

   • For the best flavor, wrap it in parchment or foil and let it rest for 5–10 minutes so the flavors meld.

6. Serve

   • Cut in half diagonally, and serve with potato chips, pickles, or a small antipasto salad.

Tips & Variations

• Bread matters: A good Italian sub roll, baguette, or ciabatta makes a huge difference—sturdy enough to hold the fillings but not too dense.

• Hot Italian Sub: Toast the sandwich in the oven until the cheese melts and the edges get crisp.

• Spicy Kick: Add giardiniera (Italian pickled vegetables) or hot cherry peppers.

• Lighter Version: Use turkey, light mozzarella, and extra veggies.