Chopped Italian Sandwich Delight

This chopped Italian sandwich is my answer to craving a hearty deli sub but wanting it super fast and easy to eat This massive TikTok favorite brings all the best Italian sub flavors together in a fun chopped form that makes every bite flavorful and satisfying

I tried this after seeing it online and ended up making it multiple times a week for my family The mashed together combo of meats cheese and veggies is just extra satisfying and so easy for busy days

Ingredients

• Deli ham: gives that rich savory base for a classic Italian sub grab sliced ham with visible marbling for best flavor
• Salami: brings a signature little peppered kick choose Genoa or hard salami for depth
• Pepperoni: adds a bold hit of spiced goodness opt for slices that are bright red with little white specks for best taste
• Provolone cheese: melts everything together with creaminess I love using fresh-sliced deli provolone for real flavor
• Shredded iceberg lettuce: makes the whole sandwich feel crisp and fresh bagged pre-shredded lettuce works great too
• Red onion: lends bite and sharpness for crunch aim for firm onions with shiny purple skin
• Banana pepper rings: bring sweet heat and tang look for bright yellow slices for best flavor
• Ripe tomato: brightens up the whole mix pick a heavy tomato that gives slightly to the touch for juiciness
• Sub rolls: are your vessel holding all the goodness together grab crusty hoagie rolls from a good bakery for best texture
• Mayonnaise: forms the creamy backbone of the dressing pick full-fat for richness
• Red wine vinegar: bumps up acidity and freshness any brand works
• Italian salad dressing: layers in herby tang and body go for one with real bits of herbs visible in the bottle
• Italian seasoning: gives a lemony herbal lift smell for a nice herby aroma to ensure freshness
• Salt and pepper: bring everything together season to taste with fresh cracked if you have it

Step-by-Step Instructions

Chop All the Fillings:

Place your lettuce deli meats provolone onion banana peppers and tomato on a large cutting board Use a large chef knife to chop everything together until the pieces are small and can be scooped up in a forkful This helps blend the flavors and makes the classic chopped sandwich texture

Dress It:

Spoon mayonnaise on top of the chopped mixture Drizzle evenly with red wine vinegar and Italian salad dressing Add Italian seasoning and a good pinch each of salt and black pepper Toss thoroughly with a spatula or clean hands to coat every piece

Divide and Fill:

Once every bite is well dressed divide the mixture into four equal mounds

Build the Sandwiches:

Using a spatula scoop each mound onto one sub roll and pile it high Serve as is or wrap for lunches

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Italian subs remind me of visits to the boardwalk when I was a kid where the sandwich shop would wrap them up to be eaten on the sand My favorite part has always been the banana peppers because they give a little zing to every bite

Storage Tips

If you want to prep ahead chop all the ingredients and store the filling undressed in an airtight container for up to two days Store the dressing separately and mix just before serving so the lettuce stays crunchy Fully assembled sandwiches can be wrapped tightly and kept in the fridge for one day but the bread might get a bit soft

Ingredient Substitutions

You can mix and match with whatever cold cuts and cheeses you love Turkey works if you want it lighter Swiss can be swapped for provolone Add green bell peppers for more crunch or olives for even more Italian flair For vegan friends use plant-based deli slices and vegan mayo plus any non-dairy cheese

Serving Suggestions

This sandwich is perfect as a hearty lunch or sliced into pieces for a party tray Great with salty potato chips or a tangy pasta salad on the side Wrap individual sandwiches in parchment for grab-and-go lunches or to take to a picnic

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Cultural Context

The chopped Italian sub was boosted by social media but has deep classic roots in Italian American delis The signature combo of cured meats cheese and tangy dressing has been a long-standing fast lunch favorite in cities like New York and Philly The chopped version is a clever way of mixing the flavors even more into every bite

Recipe FAQs

→ What kinds of deli meats work best for an Italian sandwich?

Ham, salami, and pepperoni are traditional favorites, offering a blend of sweetness, spice, and savory depth. You can also add turkey or mortadella for variation.

→ How do you keep the sandwich from getting soggy?

Chop and mix fillings just before assembling, and dress ingredients lightly. Serve immediately, and if packing ahead, keep the dressing separate until ready to eat.

→ Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?

Yes, prep and chop components in advance, but store fillings and rolls separately. Combine with dressing and assemble when ready to eat for best texture.

→ What bread works best for these sandwiches?

Sub or hoagie rolls are sturdy and hold up well to the hearty fillings. Soft Italian or ciabatta rolls are also excellent choices for added flavor and texture.

→ Are there vegetarian options for this sandwich?

Swap deli meats for roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell pepper, and eggplant. Add extra cheese or your favorite plant-based alternatives for flavor.

→ What sides pair well with chopped Italian sandwiches?

Pair with classic sides like potato chips, pickles, marinated olives, or a simple green salad to round out a satisfying meal.