The Spicy Italian Sub is a bold, flavorful sandwich that combines the heat of spicy ingredients with the savory goodness of Italian deli meats. Here’s a recipe to make this sandwich extra zesty and satisfying:
The Spicy Italian Sub Recipe:
Ingredients:
- Bread: 1 sub roll or hoagie roll (about 8-10 inches)
- Meats:
- 3-4 slices of salami
- 3-4 slices of pepperoni
- 3-4 slices of capicola or mortadella (optional, but adds great flavor)
- Cheese: 2 slices of provolone cheese (or mozzarella for a milder option)
- Spicy elements:
- 2-3 banana peppers or hot giardiniera (for heat)
- 2-3 jalapeños, sliced (optional, for extra spice)
- 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for an extra kick)
- Fresh veggies:
- A few leaves of shredded iceberg lettuce or arugula
- 2-3 slices of tomato
- Thin slices of red onion
- Condiments:
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar (for tanginess)
- 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning (or dried oregano)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon of mayo or spicy mustard (optional, for creaminess)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bread:
- Slice the sub roll down the middle, but don’t cut all the way through, leaving the two sides hinged.
- If you like, you can lightly toast the bread in the oven or on a grill for a few minutes to add a bit of crunch and warmth.
2. Layer the Meats and Cheese:
- Start by layering the salami, pepperoni, and capicola (or mortadella) along the bottom of the roll.
- Add 2 slices of provolone cheese on top of the meats for a melty, gooey texture.
3. Add the Spice:
- Add a few slices of jalapeños (if you like it really spicy), and layer on the banana peppers or hot giardiniera.
- Sprinkle a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (if using) for an added layer of heat.
4. Add Fresh Veggies:
- Place shredded lettuce, tomato slices, and thinly sliced red onion on top of the meats and cheese. The veggies balance the heat and add crunch.
5. Condiment Time:
- Drizzle olive oil and red wine vinegar on the sandwich, and sprinkle with Italian seasoning (or dried oregano) for extra flavor.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- If you want extra creaminess, spread a thin layer of mayo or spicy mustard on the inside of the top roll.
6. Close and Serve:
- Close the sandwich, pressing it down slightly to hold everything together.
- Slice it into half or quarters, depending on your preference.
Serving Suggestions:
- Side Dishes: Serve with a side of crispy fries, potato chips, or pickles to complement the spice and flavors.
- Cold Drink: Pair with a refreshing lemonade, Iced tea, or beer for a perfect contrast to the heat.
Tips:
- Bread Variety: You can use a French baguette, ciabatta, or hoagie rolls if you prefer a different style of bread.
- Cheese Alternatives: If you prefer a milder cheese, mozzarella or cheddar would work well in place of provolone.
- Veggie Alternatives: Add some roasted red peppers or cucumbers if you prefer milder veggies or additional freshness.
- Heat Control: If you don’t want the sandwich too spicy, you can reduce the amount of jalapeños, banana peppers, and red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference.
The Spicy Italian Sub is the perfect balance of salty, spicy, and tangy with a satisfying mix of Italian meats and cheese. Whether you’re looking for a fiery lunch or dinner, this sandwich hits the spot with its bold flavors and zesty toppings. Enjoy! Let me know if you need more variations or additional tips!
