Sports Sunday Sandwich
A hearty Italian-inspired sandwich layered with meats, cheeses, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful dressing, perfect for casual gatherings and sports fans alike.
Ingredients
- 1 large round loaf Italian bread ⓘ
- 4 oz. chopped black olives, drained ⓘ
- 1 red onion, sliced and rings separated ⓘ
- 1/2 head iceberg lettuce, separated ⓘ
- 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and very thinly sliced ⓘ
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing ⓘ
- 1/2 pound salami, sliced
- 1/2 pound bologna, sliced ⓘ
- 1/2 pound Provolone cheese, sliced ⓘ
- 1/2 pound Cheddar cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Halve the bread horizontally.
- In a large bowl, combine the olives, onion, lettuce, and bell pepper, and toss with Italian dressing.
- Spread half of the salad mixture on the bottom half of the bread.
- Top with single layers of half of the salami, bologna, and provolone cheese.
- Add slices of red bell pepper and red onion if desired.
- Spread the remaining salad mixture over the layered ingredients.
- Add the remaining meats and cheeses on top of the second layer.
- Place the top half of the bread over the fillings and press down gently.
- Cut the sandwich into wedges like a pie to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on the Sports Sunday Sandwich, consider adding sliced pepperoncini or a layer of pesto for extra flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute turkey slices for the salami and bologna. Using a different type of cheese, such as mozzarella, can also enhance its creaminess. Fresh herbs like basil can elevate the taste, too.
Serving Suggestions
This sandwich is perfect for game day gatherings and pairs beautifully with a side of crunchy potato chips or a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a bowl of Baked Spaghetti With Sausage or a savory Italian antipasto platter. Cut the sandwich into smaller pieces for easy sharing.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps to maintain the bread's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sports Sunday Sandwich contains roughly 275 calories, with 12g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value) and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 676mg per serving (29% 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 Sports Sunday Sandwich ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sandwich a few hours in advance. Just assemble it, wrap it tightly, and keep it in the refrigerator. To maintain freshness, avoid adding the dressing until just before serving.
What can I use instead of Italian dressing?
If you don't have Italian dressing, you can create a simple vinaigrette using olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and Italian herbs. This homemade dressing will add a similar flavor profile to the sandwich.
How can I make this sandwich vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of the Sports Sunday Sandwich, simply omit the meats and add more vegetables like cucumbers, zucchini, or artichokes. You can also add hummus or a layer of roasted red peppers for added flavor.
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).