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Close-up of a delicious Ham Sandwich on a baguette with sliced ham, greens, and chopped vegetable salsa

Chopped Italian Sandwich with a Tangy Vinaigrette

This vibrant, flavor-packed Chopped Italian Sandwich combines classic deli meats and crisp vegetables, all finely diced and tossed in a zesty, homemade red wine vinaigrette. It's an explosion of Italian deli flavors in every bite, perfect for a satisfying lunch or quick dinner.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 sandwiches
Course: Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Tangy Vinaigrette
  • 1/4 cup Red Wine Vinegar
  • 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1 tsp Dijon Mustard
  • 1 clove Garlic minced
  • 1/2 tsp Dried Oregano
  • 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes optional
  • 1/2 tsp Salt or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper freshly ground, or to taste
For the Chopped Sandwich Filling
  • 1 head Romaine Lettuce finely chopped
  • 4 oz Provolone Cheese thinly sliced, then finely diced
  • 4 oz Genoa Salami thinly sliced, then finely diced
  • 4 oz Sliced Pepperoni finely diced
  • 4 oz Sliced Deli Ham finely diced
  • 1/2 medium Red Onion finely minced
  • 1/2 cup Banana Peppers or pepperoncini, drained and finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup Cherry Tomatoes quartered or finely diced
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley chopped, optional
  • 4 Hoagie Rolls or sub rolls, split horizontally

Equipment

  • Sharp knife
  • Large cutting board
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small bowl or jar
  • Whisk

Method
 

Prepare the Tangy Vinaigrette
  1. In a small bowl or jar, combine the red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Whisk vigorously or shake well until fully emulsified. Set aside.
Chop the Sandwich Filling
  1. Lay out your romaine lettuce on a large cutting board. Using a sharp chef's knife, finely chop the lettuce into small, bite-sized pieces. Transfer to a very large mixing bowl.
  2. Next, stack the provolone cheese, genoa salami, pepperoni, and deli ham slices. Using the same knife, finely dice all the meats and cheese into small, uniform pieces, similar in size to the chopped lettuce. Add them to the mixing bowl with the lettuce.
  3. Add the finely minced red onion, drained and chopped banana peppers (or pepperoncini), quartered cherry tomatoes, and fresh parsley (if using) to the mixing bowl.
Assemble the Chopped Sandwich
  1. Pour about half of the prepared tangy vinaigrette over the chopped ingredients in the large bowl. Using two spatulas or large spoons, thoroughly toss all the ingredients until everything is well combined and evenly coated with the dressing. Add more vinaigrette to your liking, ensuring the mixture is moist but not soggy.
  2. Taste the mixture and adjust seasonings if necessary. You might want more salt, pepper, or a pinch more red pepper flakes for extra kick.
  3. To serve, open each hoagie roll and scoop a generous amount of the chopped Italian sandwich mixture into each roll. Press down gently to compact the filling.
Serve
  1. Serve immediately. For an extra touch, you can lightly toast the hoagie rolls before filling, if desired.

Notes

For an even spicier kick, add a few slices of hot cherry peppers to the mix.
This sandwich filling is best enjoyed fresh. If making ahead, store the chopped ingredients and vinaigrette separately and combine just before serving to prevent the lettuce from getting soggy.
Feel free to customize with other Italian deli favorites like mortadella or capicola, or add other vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers.