Toasted Italian Sandwich Recipe

Ingredients

Sandwich Fillings

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup fresh spinach or arugula
• 1 bell pepper, any color, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded low moisture mozzarella
• 1/2 cup sliced provolone or sharp cheddar
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon freshly grated Parmesan
• 1/4 cup tomato sauce or marinara
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional)

Bread & Finish

• 2 ciabatta rolls or sturdy subs, split lengthwise
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup sliced fresh basil or flat leaf parsley
• 1 teaspoon sliced roasted red peppers (optional)
• 4 slices Italian meats such as salami, capicola, or prosciutto
• 4 slices provolone or mozzarella
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil for brushing

Instructions

1. 1Prep the aromatics

   Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red onion, cook 4 to 5 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden, stirring often.

2. 2Sauté the vegetables

   Add the sliced bell pepper, spinach or arugula, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook 3 to 4 minutes until the greens wilt and the peppers begin to soften. Remove from heat and stir in balsamic vinegar if using.

3. 3Warm the tomato sauce

   In a small bowl, stir tomato sauce with Italian seasoning and a pinch of salt. Microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or warm gently in the skillet for 1 minute.

4. 4Butter and toast the rolls

   Preheat your broiler and position a rack in the upper third. Mix softened butter with red pepper flakes. Brush the cut sides of ciabatta rolls with olive oil, then butter the insides. Place rolls cut side down on a baking sheet and toast 2 to 3 minutes until golden.

5. 5Assemble the sandwich base

   Spread a thin layer of warm tomato sauce on the bottom half of each roll, leaving a small border. Layer with slices of Italian meat, then add a slice or two of provolone.

6. 6Add greens and aromatics

   Spoon the warm pepper and spinach mixture over the meats, then top with fresh basil or parsley and sliced roasted red peppers.

7. 7Create the cheesy crust

   Generously sprinkle mozzarella and provolone over the filling, then dust with Parmesan. Cover with the top half of the roll.

8. 8Broil to perfection

   Lightly brush the top of the sandwich with olive oil. Broil 2 to 4 minutes, watching closely, until the cheese is bubbling and the bread is deeply golden.

9. 9Rest and slice

   Let the sandwich rest for 2 to 3 minutes so the filling sets and the cheese stays creamy. Slice in half diagonally if desired.

10. 10Serve immediately

    Serve hot with your favorite chips or a simple side salad for a complete meal.