Muffalata

Prep: 10 min Serves: 2 Cuisine: Italian

A flavorful Italian-inspired sandwich featuring a medley of olives, meats, and cheese, perfect for a hearty lunch or casual gathering. Bold, savory, and satisfying.

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Ingredients

  • 1 c. black olives, chopped
  • 1 c. green olives, chopped
  • 2 Tbsp. minced green onion
  • 2 tsp. minced garlic
  • 1/2 c. olive oil
  • black pepper to taste
  • 1 (10-inch) bun
  • 2 oz. thin mortadella
  • 2 oz. thin smoked turkey
  • 2 oz. Genoa salami

Instructions

  1. Combine chopped black olives, chopped green olives, minced green onion, minced garlic, olive oil, and black pepper in a bowl and set aside.
  2. Split the bun in half horizontally.
  3. Layer one half of the bun with thin slices of mortadella, smoked turkey, and Genoa salami.
  4. Spread the olive mixture over the layered meats.
  5. Top with cheese (if desired), then place the other half of the bun on top.
  6. Cut the sandwich in half and serve.

Tips & Substitutions

For a more complex flavor, let the olive mixture sit for at least an hour before assembling the sandwich. You can substitute the meats with your favorite deli options like prosciutto or salami for a different taste. For a vegetarian version, consider using roasted red peppers and artichokes instead of meat. Pair with a side of Italian recipes like Antipasto Shell Salad for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

This Muffalata sandwich is perfect for picnics or quick lunches. Serve it with a side of crispy potato chips or a light salad for a balanced meal. For an Italian twist, pair it with Sister Marie's Spaghetti Sauce. You can also serve it with a selection of pickles and olives for an appetizer platter.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap the sandwich in foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. This helps to maintain the bread's texture while warming the filling. Enjoy it cold as well for a refreshing option.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Muffalata contains roughly 896 calories, with 28g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (115% of the Daily Value), iron (78% of the Daily Value), and protein (56% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1569mg per serving (68% of the Daily Value).

896 kcal 45% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 28.2g 56% DV
Total Fat 56.9g 73% DV
Carbs 91.9g 33% DV
Fiber 32.1g 100% DV
Sugar 2.6g 5% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1569.1mg 68% DV
Potassium 1758.5mg 37% DV
Cholesterol 48.5mg 16% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 54.7mcg 6% DV
Vitamin C 0.5mg 1% DV
Vitamin D 0.7mcg 4% DV
Calcium 599mg 46% DV
Iron 14mg 78% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber

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 mixture in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the olive mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will intensify, making your sandwich even tastier. Just give it a good stir before using. This makes meal prep easier, especially if you're planning for a gathering or picnic.

What kind of bread works best for Muffalata?

While a traditional 10-inch round bun is ideal, you can also use ciabatta or focaccia bread for a different texture. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the fillings without becoming soggy. This allows for a delightful crunch with each bite, enhancing the overall sandwich experience.

Can I add other ingredients to the sandwich?

Yes, feel free to customize your Muffalata! You can add sliced provolone cheese for extra creaminess or include roasted vegetables for added flavor. Just ensure that the additional ingredients complement the olive mixture and meats, creating a balanced taste without overwhelming the sandwich.

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).

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