A classic Italian hoagie is a delicious sandwich filled with a variety of meats, cheeses, and fresh vegetables, all stacked on a soft yet hearty sub roll. It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or a party platter! Here’s how to make an Italian hoagie done right:
Ingredients:
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1 hoagie/sub roll (6-8 inches long, preferably soft yet sturdy)
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2-3 slices Genoa salami
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2-3 slices Italian dry salami (or Soppressata)
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2-3 slices capicola ham (or Gabagool)
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2-3 slices mortadella (optional but traditional)
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2-3 slices provolone cheese
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1/4 cup roasted red peppers, sliced (optional, but adds great flavor)
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Lettuce, shredded
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Tomato slices
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Onion slices (red or yellow onions work well)
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Sliced pickles (optional)
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Banana peppers or hot cherry peppers (for a bit of heat, optional)
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Olive oil (preferably extra virgin)
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Red wine vinegar or Italian dressing
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Salt and pepper
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Dried oregano (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bread:
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Slice the hoagie roll lengthwise, leaving a little bit at the bottom intact to hold the fillings. You can lightly toast the inside of the roll if you prefer a crunchier texture, or leave it soft.
2. Layer the Meats:
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Start by layering the Genoa salami, Italian dry salami, capicola ham, and mortadella (if using). Stack the meats in a nice, even layer, making sure each slice covers the bottom of the roll.
3. Add the Cheese:
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Add provolone cheese slices on top of the meats. Provolone is the traditional choice because it has a mild, slightly sharp flavor that pairs perfectly with the cured meats.
4. Add the Veggies:
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Add shredded lettuce, tomato slices, onion slices, and roasted red peppers (if using). You can also add pickles and banana peppers or hot cherry peppers for an extra punch of flavor.
5. Season the Sandwich:
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Drizzle a little bit of olive oil and red wine vinegar over the veggies. This is key to getting the right balance of richness and tang.
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Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of dried oregano (optional).
6. Assemble the Hoagie:
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Close the sandwich, gently pressing it down to help everything stay together. If your hoagie is overflowing with fillings, you can cut it in half to make it easier to eat.
7. Serve:
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Slice the sandwich in half (or into smaller portions if serving as an appetizer or for a group). Serve immediately, or wrap it up for later.
Tips and Variations:
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Bread choices: If you can’t find hoagie rolls, you can use any sturdy sub roll, ciabatta, or even baguette. Just make sure it can hold all the fillings without falling apart.
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Cold cuts: You can adjust the meat selection based on your preferences. Prosciutto, turkey, or even pepperoni can be added or substituted.
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Veggie variations: For more flavor, add arugula instead of regular lettuce or toss in some cucumber slices for crunch.
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Make it spicy: For an extra kick, use spicy Italian dressing or add more banana peppers or jalapeños.
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Add a spread: If you like, spread a bit of mayonnaise, mustard, or pesto on the bread for extra flavor.
An Italian hoagie done right is all about the right combination of meats, cheeses, and fresh veggies with that classic Italian dressing. With its tangy, salty, and savory flavors, this sandwich is a perfect treat for anyone craving a classic Italian sub! Enjoy!