Franciscan Sandwiches
Franciscan Sandwiches feature a flavorful olive salad combined with sliced cheeses and cured meats, served in crusty rolls. The marinated olive mixture adds a tangy, savory punch, making it a perfect choice for picnics, casual gatherings, or quick lunches that appeal to lovers of bold Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup sliced pimiento-stuffed olives ⓘ
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives ⓘ
- 1 clove garlic minced ⓘ
- 1/2 jar (6 oz.) marinated artichoke hearts ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper ⓘ
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon dried basil leaves ⓘ
- salt and pepper to taste ⓘ
- sourdough or French rolls ⓘ
- 1/4 pound sliced Jack cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine the sliced pimiento-stuffed olives, sliced black olives, minced garlic, marinated artichoke hearts, crushed red pepper, olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried basil leaves, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Toss to blend all ingredients well.
- Let the olive salad marinate at room temperature for about half an hour, if possible.
- Slice the sourdough or French rolls in half.
- Brush the cut sides of the rolls with olive oil.
- Layer the bottom halves with sliced Jack cheese, ham, and salami.
- Top the sandwiches with the prepared olive salad.
- Replace the top halves of the rolls.
- Serve immediately or wrap for a bag lunch or picnic.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding capers or sun-dried tomatoes to the olive salad. If you prefer a milder taste, substitute the crushed red pepper with a pinch of paprika. You can also swap Jack cheese with provolone or mozzarella for a different texture. For a vegetarian option, omit the ham and salami, and add roasted vegetables instead, aligning with Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These sandwiches are perfect for picnics or lunch boxes. Serve them alongside a fresh green salad or a side of chips for a complete meal. They also pair wonderfully with Greek-Style Yogurt for a refreshing dip. For a variation, try them with a cup of soup on a chilly day for a comforting combo.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, unwrap and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can enjoy them cold; the flavors meld beautifully after marinating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Franciscan Sandwiches contains roughly 58 calories, with 3g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1824mg per serving (79% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the olive salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the olive salad a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just allow it to come to room temperature before assembling the sandwiches for the best flavor. The longer it marinates, the more the flavors will develop.
What can I use instead of sourdough or French rolls?
If you don't have sourdough or French rolls, you can use ciabatta, hoagie rolls, or even pita bread for a different texture. Just ensure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the filling without getting soggy.
Can I customize the ingredients in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on your preferences. You can add ingredients like sliced bell peppers, cucumbers, or even different types of cheese. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to create your ideal sandwich while keeping it delicious.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).