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–+ servings
Party Size Italian Melt A beautiful, melted Italian sandwich stacked with melted mozzarella cheese, crispy pepperoni, fresh arugula, and vibrant yellow bell peppers. The rustic bread holds the flavorful layers together, with a gooey, melted cheese center and a crisp exterior, making this sandwich both delicious and visually appetizing.

Party Size Italian Melt

This Party Size Italian Melt is a flavor-packed, crowd-pleasing sandwich with layers of spicy salami, mozzarella, and a tangy vinaigrette, perfect for any gathering.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Custom Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Dish, sandwich
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Calories: 518
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil for vinaigrette
  • ¼ cup red wine vinegar for vinaigrette
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon for vinaigrette
  • 2 cloves garlic minced or grated (for vinaigrette)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano for vinaigrette
  • ½ cup mixed Italian olives pitted (adds briny flavor)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped pickled jalapeños adds heat and tang
  • 1 pinch black pepper to taste
  • 1 loaf ciabatta bread halved lengthwise (for sandwich base)
  • ¼ cup fresh basil roughly chopped (adds freshness)
  • 6 thin slices spicy salami adds flavor and spice
  • 6 thin slices prosciutto adds richness
  • 6-12 thin slices pepperoni adds more spice
  • 6 slices provolone cheese melts beautifully
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese torn (adds creaminess)
  • 1 red or orange bell pepper roasted and sliced (for sweetness)
  • 1 cup baby arugula for freshness and crunch

Method
 

  1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano until well combined. Stir in the olives, pickled jalapeños, and a pinch of black pepper. mix
  2. Place the bottom half of the ciabatta loaf on a baking sheet with the cut side facing up. Spread the vinaigrette evenly over the bread. Layer the basil, salami, prosciutto, and pepperoni on top. Add the provolone and mozzarella cheeses. prep
  3. Transfer the sandwich to the oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese begins to melt. Remove from the oven, then add the arugula, bell peppers, and top half of the ciabatta loaf. Cover the sandwich with foil. bake
  4. Return the sandwich to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the bread is toasted. bake
  5. Remove from the oven and let the sandwich sit for 3-4 minutes before slicing. Slice into 4 larger or 8 smaller sandwiches. Serve and enjoy! finish

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 518kcalCarbohydrates: 39gProtein: 26gFat: 32gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 1100mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 15mg

Notes

This sandwich is the ultimate crowd-pleaser! Loaded with Italian meats, melted cheese, and a tangy vinaigrette, it’s perfect for parties or casual gatherings. Make it ahead and pop it in the oven for an effortless, mouthwatering meal.

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