Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I strolled through a bustling Italian market one sun-drenched afternoon, the vibrant colors of fresh produce and fragrant herbs whispered culinary secrets to me. That’s when I discovered the inspiration for this Hearty Italian Chopped Sandwich with Crispy Artichokes. Each layer in this sandwich is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors, combining savory meats, creamy textures, and that unbeatable crunch from the crispy artichokes. Not only is this recipe perfect for lunch, but it’s also a delightful way to turn simple ingredients into a satisfying meal. With quick prep and endless possibilities for ingredient swaps, you can customize it to fit your cravings or pantry leftovers. Are you ready to dive into this culinary adventure? Why is this sandwich a must-try? Bold flavors: This Hearty Italian Sandwich With Crispy Artichokes is packed with robust Mediterranean tastes, ensuring that each bite is a flavor explosion. Easy customization: With various substitution options for ingredients, you can easily adapt it to your dietary preferences or what’s available in your kitchen. Crispy crunch: The delightful texture of the crispy artichokes pairs perfectly with the creamy olive mayo, creating a satisfying contrast. Quick preparation: In less than an hour, you can whip up this delicious lunch, making it perfect for busy days. Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s for a family meal or a friendly gathering, this sandwich never fails to impress. For even more inspiration, check out my Pork Chops with Potatoes in Gravy or a refreshing Arugula Salad with Shaved Parmesan! Italian Sandwich With Crispy Artichokes Transform your lunch with this flavorful delight! For the Sandwich Italian Rolls – The perfect bread base for your sandwich; ciabatta or focaccia works beautifully too. Salami – Adds a salty, savory touch; feel free to substitute with prosciutto or turkey for a lighter bite. Provolone Cheese – Creamy richness that complements the other layers; mozzarella is a milder choice if preferred. Iceberg Lettuce – Adds a fresh crunch; swap it with arugula for a peppery twist. Cherry Tomatoes – Bursting with juicy sweetness; if you prefer crunch, sliced cucumbers are a great substitute. Garbanzo Beans – A delicious source of protein; chickpeas are a wonderful alternative if needed. Red Onion – Brings a sharp crunch; for a milder option, green onions are perfect. Pepperoncini – Introduces tangy, mild heat; jalapeños can add a spicier kick if desired. For the Crispy Artichokes Artichoke Hearts – The star for that delightful crispiness; roasted bell peppers can also add flavor. Panko Breadcrumbs – Create a lovely crispy coating; regular breadcrumbs will do in a pinch. Olive Oil – Essential for binding and enhancing flavors; don’t skip this! Espelette Pepper – Imparts warmth and subtle heat; paprika is an excellent everyday substitute. Salt – Essential to enhance flavors; use sparingly for the best taste. For the Olive Mayo Mayonnaise – The creamy base for your flavorful spread; Greek yogurt is a lighter alternative. Castelvetrano Olives – Rich and buttery; Kalamata olives provide a stronger taste if you prefer. Red Wine Vinegar – Adds tangy brightness; apple cider vinegar can offer a touch of sweetness. Fresh Parsley, Garlic, Lemon Juice, Fresh Rosemary, Dried Oregano – Key herbs for depth; opt for fresh when possible; dried ones can substitute at a 1:3 ratio. With this Italian Sandwich With Crispy Artichokes, you’ll effortlessly turn an ordinary lunch into something extraordinary! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Italian Sandwich With Crispy Artichokes Step 1: Prep Artichokes Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, slice the artichoke hearts in half and place them in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, then generously coat with panko breadcrumbs, seasoning with salt and espelette pepper. The olive oil should glisten on the artichokes for that golden crunch you’re aiming for! Step 2: Roast Artichokes Arrange the coated artichokes cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Slide them into the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes. About halfway through, rotate the sheet for even browning. Look for a crispy, golden finish that signals they’re ready to add texture to your Italian sandwich! Step 3: Make Vinaigrette In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, fresh rosemary, and dried oregano. Aim for a smooth consistency that’s well-blended. Taste and adjust seasoning to your liking, allowing the vibrant flavors to complement the hearty components of the Italian Sandwich With Crispy Artichokes. Step 4: Prepare Olive Mayo In a food processor, combine Castelvetrano olives, fresh parsley, mayonnaise, garlic, and a splash of red wine vinegar. Pulse until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. This olive mayo will add a flavorful richness to each bite of your sandwich, ensuring every layer shines through with delicious Mediterranean flair. Step 5: Chop Ingredients Dice the salami, provolone cheese, pepperoncini, red onion, and iceberg lettuce into bite-sized pieces. The crispness of these fresh ingredients, combined with the savory meats, will provide a delightful contrast in your Italian sandwich, ensuring a balance of textures and flavors that are absolutely irresistible. Step 6: Toast Rolls Slice the Italian rolls in half and place them on a baking sheet. Broil in the oven for about 2–4 minutes, watching closely until the edges turn golden and crisp. The aroma of toasting bread will fill your kitchen, preparing you for the delicious assembly of your Italian Sandwich With Crispy Artichokes. Step 7: Assemble Sandwich Start by spreading a generous layer of olive mayo on the cut sides of the toasted rolls. Next, layer the chopped salami, provolone, lettuce, red onion, pepperoncini, and cherry tomatoes as your base. Drizzle with the prepared vinaigrette, then finish with the crispy artichokes on top. The final touch creates an inviting, hearty sandwich ready to enjoy! What to Serve with Hearty Italian Chopped Sandwich with Crispy Artichokes The perfect companion for your sandwich can elevate your meal to an unforgettable dining experience. Crispy Arugula Salad: A fresh and peppery salad balances the richness of the sandwich while adding vibrant greens to the plate. Mediterranean Mezze Platter: Featuring olives, hummus, and feta, this array brings a variety of textures and flavors that complement the sandwich’s Mediterranean roots. Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato Fries: Crunchy, savory, and slightly sweet, these fries add a delightful twist and crispy element to your meal. Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the flavors beautifully, making for a refreshing pairing. Roasted Vegetable Medley: Seasonal veggies drizzled with olive oil add another layer of savory goodness and colorful presentation beside your sandwich. Tiramisu for Dessert: End your meal on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert, known for its rich flavor and creamy texture, perfectly balancing the savory sandwich. How to Store and Freeze Italian Sandwich With Crispy Artichokes Room Temperature: It’s best to enjoy the Italian sandwich fresh, but if necessary, keep it at room temperature for up to 2 hours to prevent spoilage. Fridge: If you have leftovers, store the sandwich components separately in airtight containers. The crispy artichokes are best consumed within 24 hours for optimal texture. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the uncooked artichokes coated in breadcrumbs. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can be stored for up to 2 months. Reheating: To retain the crunch, reheat crispy artichokes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy. Make Ahead Options Preparing the Hearty Italian Sandwich with Crispy Artichokes ahead of time is a great way to save precious minutes during busy lunches! You can prepare the crispy artichokes and olive mayo up to 3 days in advance; simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to preserve their quality—this ensures the artichokes maintain their crunch. Additionally, you can chop all your sandwich fillings (salami, cheese, veggies) up to 24 hours ahead, keeping them fresh in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply toast the rolls and assemble your sandwich with the prepared ingredients, drizzling with vinaigrette right before serving to keep everything vibrant and delicious! Expert Tips for Italian Sandwich With Crispy Artichokes Crispy Artichokes: Ensure even coating of panko on artichokes to achieve maximum crunch. Soggy artichokes can ruin your sandwich experience! Flavor Balance: Whisk vinaigrette thoroughly to harmonize the herb and acid flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning to avoid overpowering your Italian sandwich. Ingredient Assembly: Layer your sandwich ingredients just before serving to prevent sogginess. This keeps every bite delightful and fresh! Make Ahead: Prepare crispy artichokes and olive mayo up to 2 days in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers. It saves you time on busy days! Right Roll: Opt for fresh Italian rolls, as they provide the perfect base. If unavailable, ciabatta or focaccia will also work beautifully and enhance your Italian sandwich! Italian Sandwich With Crispy Artichokes Variations Feel free to unleash your creativity in the kitchen as you customize this delightful sandwich to your taste! Vegetarian Delight: Omit the salami and add grilled vegetables like zucchini or eggplant for a hearty twist. It’s flavorful and satisfying! Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese, which lend a zingy flavor that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. Crunchy Alternatives: Swap artichokes for homemade zucchini chips for a lighter, yet still crispy option that will keep your sandwich exciting. Herb Boost: Incorporate fresh basil or oregano into the olive mayo for an extra layer of aromatic delight that enhances the Mediterranean flavor. Spice It Up: If you love a kick, substitute pepperoncini for spicy jalapeños to escalate the heat level and give your sandwich a fiery edge. Texture Contrast: Try adding a layer of crunchy pickles or coleslaw to introduce a refreshing crispness that complements the savory elements perfectly. Creamy Version: For a creamier texture, swap mayonnaise for a rich avocado spread that adds healthy fats while maintaining the sandwich’s flavor integrity. As you introduce these variations, trust your instincts and preferences! And don’t forget, these options can also elevate your other favorite dishes, such as a classic Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce or even comforting Mini Baked Potatoes. Enjoy experimenting! Italian Sandwich With Crispy Artichokes Recipe FAQs What kind of Italian rolls should I use? Absolutely! Italian rolls are ideal for this sandwich due to their sturdy texture that holds up well against the fillings. If you want to switch things up, ciabatta offers a delightful chewiness, while focaccia can give it a softer, more pillowy base. Personal preference plays a big part here, so choose what you love! How long can I store leftovers? If you find yourself with leftover sandwich components, store them separately. The crispy artichokes should be kept in an airtight container with a paper towel to absorb moisture and maintain their crunch for up to 24 hours. The other sandwich ingredients, like meats and vegetables, can also be refrigerated for about 3 to 4 days, but remember to assemble the sandwich fresh for the best experience. Can I freeze the crispy artichokes? Yes! Freezing the uncooked, breadcrumb-coated artichokes is a wonderful option if you’re prepping ahead. Simply place them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, and you can freeze them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer at 400°F (200°C) without thawing for that delightful crunch! What can I do if the sandwich is soggy? Very! If your sandwich is soggy, it may be a sign that ingredients were layered too early or that moisture built up. To avoid this, layer the ingredients right before serving. Additionally, if you have leftover ingredients, try storing them separately and toasting the bread again before assembling your sandwich. This will help maintain that lovely, crispy texture. Are there any dietary considerations I need to be aware of? Indeed! If you’re catering to dietary restrictions, this sandwich offers great flexibility. For a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free rolls. If you’re concerned about allergens, be cautious with olives and panko breadcrumbs. Alternatively, you can omit salami for a vegetarian version; grilled vegetables or extra beans are fantastic fillers. Always verify ingredient labels for potential allergens. How should I select ripe ingredients? When picking fresh ingredients, especially tomatoes and peppers, look for ones that are vibrant in color and feel firm yet slightly yielding when you give them a gentle squeeze. Avoid any dark spots or blemishes, as these can indicate overripeness. Fresh herbs should be bright and fragrant; wilted leaves are a sign they are past their prime. Enjoy the process of choosing the freshest! Savor the Crunch: Italian Sandwich With Crispy Artichokes This Italian Sandwich With Crispy Artichokes is a delicious combination of savory meats and creamy textures for a satisfying meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr Servings: 4 sandwichesCourse: SnacksCuisine: ItalianCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Sandwich4 rolls Italian Rolls ciabatta or focaccia also works8 oz Salami or substitute with prosciutto or turkey4 oz Provolone Cheese or mozzarella2 cups Iceberg Lettuce or arugula1 cup Cherry Tomatoes or sliced cucumbers1 cup Garbanzo Beans or chickpeas1 medium Red Onion or green onions1/2 cup Pepperoncini or jalapeños for spiceFor the Crispy Artichokes2 cups Artichoke Hearts or roasted bell peppers1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs or regular breadcrumbs1/4 cup Olive Oil1 tsp Espelette Pepper or paprika1 tsp SaltFor the Olive Mayo1/2 cup Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt1/2 cup Castelvetrano Olives or Kalamata olives1 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar or apple cider vinegar2 tbsp Fresh Parsley2 cloves Garlic1 tbsp Lemon Juice1 tbsp Fresh Rosemary1 tsp Dried Oregano Equipment OvenBaking SheetParchment PaperFood ProcessorSmall BowlWhisk Method Prep ArtichokesPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the artichoke hearts in half and place them in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, coat with panko breadcrumbs, seasoning with salt and espelette pepper.Roast ArtichokesArrange the coated artichokes cut-side up on a baking sheet. Bake for 35–40 minutes, rotating halfway through.Make VinaigretteIn a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, fresh rosemary, and dried oregano.Prepare Olive MayoIn a food processor, combine Castelvetrano olives, fresh parsley, mayonnaise, garlic, and red wine vinegar. Pulse until smooth.Chop IngredientsDice the salami, provolone cheese, pepperoncini, red onion, and iceberg lettuce into bite-sized pieces.Toast RollsSlice the Italian rolls in half and broil in the oven for about 2–4 minutes until golden.Assemble SandwichSpread olive mayo on toasted rolls. Layer with salami, provolone, lettuce, onion, pepperoncini, and tomatoes. Drizzle with vinaigrette and top with crispy artichokes. Nutrition Serving: 1sandwichCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 18gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 18gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 1200mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg NotesFor maximum crunch, ensure even panko coating on artichokes. Assemble sandwich ingredients just before serving to prevent sogginess. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
