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Pressed Italian Picnic Sandwiches

Hearty Pressed Italian Picnic Sandwiches for Flavor-Filled Fun

Delicious Pressed Italian Picnic Sandwiches packed with savory meats, rich cheeses, and vibrant veggies, perfect for picnics.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Pressing Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 4 sandwiches
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Bread
  • 1 loaf Ciabatta Bread Sturdy alternatives like focaccia work too.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Italian herb-infused oil for extra punch.
For the Flavor Base
  • 2 tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar Red wine vinegar can be an alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar Apple cider vinegar if preferred.
  • 1 tablespoon Dried Oregano Fresh oregano can be substituted.
For the Filling
  • 4 ounces Genoa Salami Can swap with other deli meats.
  • 4 ounces Hot Capicola Savory richness for the sandwich.
  • 4 ounces Prosciutto Turkey as a lighter alternative.
  • 4 ounces Provolone Cheese Consider fresh mozzarella for different texture.
  • 1 medium Fresh Tomato Opt for vine-ripened for best flavor.
For the Freshness
  • 1 cup Basil Leaves Fresh spinach can substitute.
  • 1 cup Arugula Baby spinach can also be used.
  • 1 tablespoon Parsley Mix of Italian herbs for added depth.
For Extra Flavor
  • 1/2 cup Olive Salad or Tapenade Substitute pesto for different flavor.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Freshly minced for authentic flavor.

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • plastic wrap
  • Heavy Weight
  • Cast-Iron Skillet or Panini Press

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Slice the ciabatta bread in half horizontally, creating a top and bottom section. Place both halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  2. In a small jar, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, red wine vinegar, half of the dried oregano, freshly minced garlic, and half of the chopped parsley. Shake well to mix.
  3. On the bottom half of the bread, layer fresh basil leaves and arugula evenly.
  4. Spread a generous layer of olive salad or tapenade on the exposed side of the top half of the bread. Follow with slices of provolone cheese.
  5. On the arugula layer, stack slices of Genoa salami, hot capicola, and prosciutto. Top with sliced vine-ripened tomatoes.
  6. Sprinkle the remaining dried oregano and chopped parsley over the tomato slices. Place the top half of the bread with the olive salad side facing down onto the stacked fillings.
  7. Wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and place a heavy weight on top. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight.
  8. When ready to serve, remove the sandwich from the refrigerator and unwrap it. Slice into portions, securing with twine if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sandwichCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 1100mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

These sandwiches can be made ahead of time for optimal flavor. Store in the fridge or freeze the fillings to assemble later.

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