Making The Perfect Italian Sandwich: The Ultimate Guide

1. Freshly Baked Italian Bread

• Why It’s Essential: The bread is the foundation of any great sandwich, and when it comes to Italian sandwiches, it needs to be soft yet slightly crispy on the outside. At  Mercato, we offer a variety of freshly baked breads, such as Ciabatta, Focaccia, and Panini rolls, each perfect for different styles of sandwiches.
• Tip: For a classic panini, go with Ciabatta—it’s sturdy enough to hold all the fillings and has a wonderful texture when toasted. If you’re making a sub or hoagie-style sandwich, try our fresh sub rolls or Focaccia for an aromatic, soft base.

2. Prosciutto di Parma

• Why It’s Essential: No Italian sandwich is complete without a generous layer of Prosciutto di Parma, the king of cured hams. This dry-cured ham is thinly sliced and has a delicate, salty-sweet flavour that pairs beautifully with other ingredients.
• Tip: For a traditional Italian sandwich, layer Prosciutto di Parma with fresh mozzarella, a handful of arugula, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze on a Ciabatta roll. You’ll experience the perfect balance of salty, creamy, and tangy.

3. Salami (Genoa or Soppressata)

• Why It’s Essential: Salami is a staple in many Italian sandwiches, adding a savoury and slightly spicy kick. We offer a selection of Genoa Salami (mild, with garlic and wine) and Soppressata (spicy and full of flavour), so you can choose the one that best suits your taste.
• Tip: Layer some Soppressata with Provolone cheese, tomato slices, and a little bit of extra virgin olive oil for a satisfying sandwich. The bold flavours of the salami will stand out against the mildness of the cheese and the freshness of the tomato.

4. Capicola (Coppa)

• Why It’s Essential: Capicola, also known as Coppa, is a dry-cured pork shoulder that’s spiced with a mixture of herbs, garlic, and chili. It has a slightly spicy, smoky flavour and a tender texture that makes it a delicious addition to any Italian sandwich.
• Tip: For a flavour-packed sandwich, pair Capicola with sharp provolone cheese and roasted red peppers. Add some fresh basil for a burst of freshness, and you’ve got yourself a sandwich that’s rich in flavour and texture.

5. Fresh Mozzarella

• Why It’s Essential: Fresh mozzarella is a must-have for any Italian sandwich. It’s creamy, mild, and has a wonderful texture that complements the boldness of the cured meats. This cheese is often the star of classic Italian sandwiches like the Panino Caprese.
• Tip: Create a simple yet delicious sandwich by layering fresh mozzarella with tomato, fresh basil, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. If you’re craving something more indulgent, melt the mozzarella on a toasted Ciabatta for a gooey, comforting panini.

6. Marinated Artichokes

• Why It’s Essential: Marinated artichokes bring a tangy, slightly sour flavour to your sandwich that beautifully contrasts with the richness of meats and cheeses. Their tender texture also adds an appealing bite.
• Tip: Add some marinated artichokes to a Capicola and Provolone sandwich to elevate the flavours. They’re also great paired with Salami and fresh greens for extra zest.

7. Roasted Red Peppers

• Why It’s Essential: Roasted red peppers add a sweet, smoky flavour to any sandwich, making them a great complement to both meats and cheeses. They bring an extra layer of complexity and colour, turning any sandwich into a more exciting, vibrant meal.
• Tip: Layer roasted red peppers with Capicola or Prosciutto on a soft roll. Add a touch of balsamic glaze for sweetness and tang, and you’ll have a sandwich worthy of any Italian trattoria.

8. Extra Virgin Olive Oil

• Why It’s Essential: Extra virgin olive oil is the lifeblood of Italian cooking, and it’s no different when it comes to sandwiches. A drizzle of this high-quality oil enhances the flavours of every ingredient and adds richness to the sandwich without overwhelming it.
• Tip: After assembling your sandwich, drizzle a little bit of extra virgin olive oil on top of the bread before serving. You can also sprinkle some sea salt and black pepper for an extra burst of flavour.

9. Fresh Basil

• Why It’s Essential: Fresh basil brings a fragrant, slightly peppery kick to your sandwich. It’s the perfect herb to balance out the richness of cheeses and meats, providing a burst of freshness in every bite.
• Tip: For a simple yet refreshing Italian sandwich, layer fresh basil with mozzarella, tomato, and a touch of balsamic glaze on a crusty Focaccia bun. It’s the perfect combination of flavours!

10. Balsamic Vinegar or Balsamic Glaze

• Why It’s Essential: Balsamic vinegar adds a tart, sweet complexity that can transform an ordinary sandwich into something extraordinary. The thickened version, balsamic glaze, adds richness and a subtle sweetness.
• Tip: Drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the mozzarella and Prosciutto or any other deli meat for a sandwich with a perfect balance of sweet and savoury notes.

Putting It All Together

Now that you know the essential ingredients for the perfect Italian sandwich, it’s time to get creative! Here’s an example of how to put all of these elements together:

• Ciabatta roll: Freshly baked from our bakery, the perfect base for your sandwich.
• Prosciutto di Parma: For that delicate, melt-in-your-mouth flavour.
• Fresh mozzarella: Creamy and mild, balancing out the saltiness of the prosciutto.
• Roasted red peppers: Adding sweetness and a smoky taste.
• Fresh basil: For a fragrant, herbal finish.
• Balsamic glaze: To tie everything together with a touch of sweetness.