When it comes to sandwiches, few cuisines can rival Italy’s rich tradition of delicious and satisfying paninis. From classic combinations like salami and provolone to more modern creations featuring grilled chicken and pesto, there’s an Italian sandwich out there for everyone. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary tour of the Mediterranean, exploring 20 flavorful and authentic Italian sandwich recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Whether you’re a fan of classic combinations or looking to get adventurous with unique flavor profiles, these Italian sandwiches have got you covered. From meatball subs to caprese creations featuring fresh mozzarella and basil, we’ll show you how to bring a taste of Italy right to your doorstep.
So grab your bread, your meats, and your cheeses, and let’s dive into the world of Italian sandwich making!
Classic Italian Sub with Salami and Provolone
A hearty and flavorful sandwich that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This Classic Italian Sub with Salami and Provolone is a staple of Italian-American cuisine, featuring salami, provolone cheese, and fresh vegetables on crusty bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 long sub roll
– 4-6 slices of salami
– 2-3 slices of provolone cheese
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh lettuce
– 1/4 cup of sliced red onion
– 1 tomato, sliced
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the sub roll in half lengthwise.
3. Layer the salami, provolone cheese, lettuce, onion, and tomato on one half of the bread.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the other half of the bread on top to complete the sandwich.
6. Cook in the panini press or grill for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Caprese Sandwich with Fresh Mozzarella and Basil
This Italian-inspired sandwich is a simple yet elegant combination of fresh mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, and fragrant basil. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
• 2 slices of crusty bread (such as Ciabatta or Focaccia)
• 1 large tomato, sliced
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• Fresh basil leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Extra-virgin olive oil for drizzling
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Lay one slice of bread on a flat surface.
3. Arrange tomato slices on top of the bread, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Place sliced mozzarella cheese over the tomatoes.
5. Top with fresh basil leaves, torn into smaller pieces if desired.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Assemble the sandwich by placing the second slice of bread on top.
8. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and bread is toasted.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Grilled Chicken Parmesan Sandwich
Elevate your sandwich game with this crispy and cheesy Grilled Chicken Parmesan Sandwich, featuring juicy chicken, melted mozzarella, and tangy marinara sauce on toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 4 hamburger buns
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the flour mixture, then coat with breadcrumbs.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Assemble sandwiches by spreading marinara sauce on the bottom bun, topping with grilled chicken, mozzarella cheese, and finishing with the top bun.
6. Serve immediately and garnish with chopped basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetarian Italian Sandwich with Roasted Peppers
This flavorful sandwich combines the sweetness of roasted peppers with the savory goodness of melted mozzarella and fresh basil, all nestled between crispy bread. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Italian bread
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss peppers with olive oil, onion, and garlic on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Assemble sandwiches by spreading a layer of roasted peppers on each bread slice, followed by mozzarella cheese and basil leaves.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Meatball Sub with Marinara Sauce
Elevate your sub game with this classic Italian-inspired recipe that combines juicy meatballs with rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 jar marinara sauce (28 oz)
– 4 sub rolls
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley in a bowl. Form into meatballs (about 12-15). Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
3. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Heat marinara sauce over medium heat.
5. Assemble subs by placing cooked meatballs and marinara sauce on sub rolls, topping with mozzarella cheese. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Chicken Panini with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
A flavorful twist on the classic panini, this recipe combines juicy chicken, creamy pesto, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes for a deliciously satisfying sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or Focaccia work well)
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Provolone cheese, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together pesto and olive oil.
3. Brush the mixture onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast the bread until lightly browned.
6. Assemble the panini by placing a slice of chicken on each piece of toasted bread, followed by a sprinkle of sun-dried tomatoes and a slice of Provolone cheese (if using).
7. Place the sandwiches in the panini press or grill for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Italian Tuna Sandwich with Olive Tapenade
Elevate your lunch game with this flavorful and refreshing Italian-inspired tuna sandwich, topped with creamy olive tapenade.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon capers, chopped
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices Italian bread ( Ciabatta or Focaccia work well)
– Olive tapenade (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, olive oil, garlic, capers, and Dijon mustard. Mix until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Spread 1-2 tablespoons of the tuna mixture onto each slice of Italian bread.
4. Top each sandwich with a dollop of olive tapenade.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None, as this is an assembly-only recipe!
Prosciutto and Fig Sandwich with Balsamic Glaze
A sweet and savory combination of prosciutto, figs, and balsamic glaze on crispy bread makes for a perfect snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of prosciutto
– 1/2 cup of fresh figs, sliced
– 4 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh thyme
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– Balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange the prosciutto slices on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy.
3. Spread mayonnaise on each baguette slice, then top with a piece of crispy prosciutto, a few slices of fig, and a sprinkle of thyme.
4. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the sandwich just before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Eggplant Parmesan Sandwich
Eggplant Parmesan Sandwich Recipe
A classic Italian-American favorite, this sandwich brings together the flavors of breaded and fried eggplant, melted mozzarella cheese, and tangy marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 jar marinara sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, salt, and garlic powder.
2. Dip each eggplant round into the flour mixture, then coat with breadcrumbs, shaking off excess.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry breaded eggplant slices until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Assemble sandwiches by spreading marinara sauce on bottom bun, topping with fried eggplant, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Top with top bun.
5. Serve immediately and garnish with chopped basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes (includes frying time)
Roast Beef and Arugula Italian Sandwich
Experience the perfect blend of flavors with this Roast Beef and Arugula Italian Sandwich, featuring tender roast beef, peppery arugula, and creamy provolone cheese on a crusty baguette.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound roasted beef (such as prime rib or top round), thinly sliced
– 4 cups arugula
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated provolone cheese
– 1 baguette, split lengthwise
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Slice the roasted beef against the grain into thin strips.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the mixture evenly onto the baguette halves.
5. Layer sliced roast beef, arugula, and provolone cheese on each baguette half.
6. Place the sandwiches on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Italian Sausage Sandwich with Peppers
A flavorful twist on the classic sausage sandwich, this recipe combines spicy Italian sausage with sweet and crunchy bell peppers for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian sausages (sweet or hot)
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 sub rolls or hoagie buns
– Optional: provolone cheese, marinara sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cook the sausages for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, cook the peppers and onions in olive oil over medium heat until tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by slicing the cooked sausages and adding to the rolls with the pepper mixture and garlic.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add cheese or marinara sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Artichoke and Spinach Italian Panini
Elevate your panini game with the rich flavors of artichoke and spinach. This Mediterranean-inspired sandwich is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Ciabatta bread
– 1 (14 oz) can of artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Provolone or Parmesan cheese, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together chopped artichoke hearts, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place 1/4 cup of the artichoke mixture on each slice of Ciabatta bread.
4. Top with 1/2 cup fresh baby spinach leaves.
5. Add sliced cheese (if using) and finish with another slice of Ciabatta bread.
6. Cook in the panini press or grill for 3-4 minutes, until crispy and toasted.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Chicken Caesar Italian Sandwich
A twist on the classic Italian sub, this Chicken Caesar Italian Sandwich combines crispy chicken, creamy Caesar dressing, and melted mozzarella cheese on a crusty baguette.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
– 2 slices of mozzarella cheese
– 4 Italian-style sub rolls (crustier than regular sandwich bread)
– Lettuce leaves
– Thinly sliced red onion
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken breast with salt and pepper.
3. Grill or bake the chicken for about 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Slice the chicken into thin strips.
5. Assemble sandwiches by spreading Caesar dressing on each sub roll, followed by a layer of chicken, mozzarella cheese, lettuce, and red onion.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Portobello Mushroom Italian Sandwich
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of Portobello mushrooms with the rich flavors of Italy, all wrapped up in a crispy sub sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 4 Portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 sub rolls
– Provolone or mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and egg.
3. Add mushroom slices to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange mushroom slices in a single layer. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and golden brown.
5. Assemble sandwiches by spreading mayonnaise on the sub rolls, then adding sliced cheese, roasted mushrooms, and fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bruschetta Chicken Sandwich
Elevate your sandwich game with this flavorful Bruschetta Chicken Sandwich recipe! Fresh tomatoes and basil add a burst of Mediterranean flair to this juicy chicken sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh tomatoes (such as Roma or Plum)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster.
4. Assemble sandwiches by spreading a layer of mozzarella cheese on each bun, followed by a grilled chicken breast, topped with chopped tomatoes and basil.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Italian Club Sandwich with Ham and Turkey
This Italian-inspired club sandwich combines the classic flavors of ham and turkey with creamy mozzarella cheese, crispy prosciutto, and fresh basil. The result is a satisfying and flavorful sandwich that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (Italian or French)
– 2 oz cooked turkey breast
– 2 oz thinly sliced ham
– 1/4 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 4-6 slices prosciutto
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Mayonnaise or Italian dressing (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Lay two slices of bread on a flat surface.
3. Layer the turkey, ham, mozzarella cheese, and prosciutto on each slice of bread.
4. Top with chopped basil and mayonnaise or Italian dressing (if using).
5. Place the remaining bread slices on top to complete the sandwiches.
6. Cook in the panini press or grill for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Grilled Zucchini and Goat Cheese Sandwich
A flavorful and refreshing summer sandwich that combines the sweetness of grilled zucchini with the tanginess of goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 2 tablespoons pesto
– 4 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or baguette work well)
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush both sides of zucchini slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill zucchinis for 2-3 minutes per side, until tender and slightly charred.
4. Meanwhile, spread pesto on each bread slice.
5. Top bread with grilled zucchini, crumbled goat cheese, and a sprinkle of salt.
6. Assemble sandwiches by placing two slices together.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shrimp Scampi Italian Sandwich
Shrimp Scampi Italian Sandwich Recipe
Elevate your sandwich game with this flavorful combination of succulent shrimp, tangy garlic butter, and crispy Italian bread.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 Italian sandwich rolls or sub rolls
– Provolone cheese, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add butter, garlic, and shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
3. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
4. Meanwhile, toast Italian sandwich rolls or sub rolls.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing shrimp mixture on toasted bread, followed by a slice of provolone cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ricotta and Honey Italian Sandwich
A sweet and savory twist on a classic sandwich, this Ricotta and Honey Italian Sandwich combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the subtle sweetness of honey, all wrapped up in a crispy baguette.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp pure honey
– 4 slices of baguette (preferably Italian-style)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
– Salted butter, softened (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together ricotta cheese and honey until well combined.
3. Slice the baguette into 1-inch thick pieces and toast until lightly browned.
4. Spread a layer of the ricotta-honey mixture onto each slice of toasted baguette.
5. Place the sandwiches in the panini press or grill for about 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.
6. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh mint leaves. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Tomato Italian Sandwich
This recipe combines the rich flavors of roasted garlic and fresh tomatoes with the savory taste of Italian bread, creating a delicious and satisfying sandwich. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 cloves of garlic
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced
– 4 slices of Italian bread
– 1/4 cup of freshly grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap the garlic cloves in foil and roast for 30 minutes, or until soft and caramelized.
3. Spread the roasted garlic on each slice of Italian bread.
4. Top with sliced tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, salt, and pepper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the sandwich.
6. Assemble the sandwiches by placing two slices together.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (roasting garlic) + assembly time
Summary
Discover the rich flavors of Italy with these 20 authentic sandwich recipes. From classic combinations like salami and provolone to creative twists featuring sun-dried tomatoes and pesto, there’s something for every palate. Enjoy grilled chicken parmesan, roasted pepper veggie sandwiches, meatball subs, and more. Packed with fresh ingredients like mozzarella, basil, and prosciutto, these Italian sandwiches will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for new lunch ideas, this collection is sure to satisfy.
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