The Orleans Italian Muffuletta with Extra Olive Salad is a legendary New Orleans sandwich celebrated for its bold Mediterranean flavours and generous layers of Italian cured meats, cheeses and a vibrant olive salad. Originally introduced by Sicilian immigrants to New Orleans, the Muffuletta has become an iconic deli favourite, prized for its hearty texture and unforgettable combination of savoury, briny and tangy flavours.

This version features an extra-generous olive salad made with green and black olives, giardiniera, roasted red peppers, capers, garlic, herbs and extra virgin olive oil. As the sandwich rests, the olive dressing soaks into the bread, bringing every layer together for a rich and satisfying bite. Perfect for family lunches, picnics, parties or casual entertaining, this classic sandwich is guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic New Orleans-inspired flavours.
Packed with premium Italian meats and cheeses.
Loaded with an extra olive salad for maximum flavour.
Perfect for feeding a crowd.
Ideal for picnics, lunches and casual gatherings.

Recipe Information

Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (optional warming)
Rest Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6–8

Ingredients

For the Sandwich

1 large round Muffuletta loaf (10–12 inches) or round Italian sesame bread
8 slices Genoa salami
8 slices mortadella
8 slices smoked ham
6 slices provolone cheese
6 slices mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (optional, for brushing the bread)

Extra Olive Salad

1 cup green olives, chopped
1 cup black olives, chopped
½ cup giardiniera, finely chopped
½ cup roasted red peppers, diced
2 tablespoons capers
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Optional Additions

Thinly sliced tomatoes
Pepperoncini peppers
Fresh basil leaves
Baby rocket (arugula)
Extra provolone cheese
Sliced pepper Jack cheese for a spicy variation

Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Whisk
Sharp serrated knife
Chopping board
Large baking tray (optional)
Plastic wrap or baking parchment
Heavy skillet or chopping board for pressing

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Olive Salad

Combine the green olives, black olives, giardiniera, roasted red peppers, capers, garlic, parsley, oregano and crushed red pepper flakes in a medium bowl.
Whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice and black pepper.
Pour the dressing over the olive mixture and stir until evenly coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For the fullest flavour, marinate for several hours or overnight.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread

Slice the Muffuletta loaf horizontally.
If desired, lightly brush the cut sides with olive oil.
Toast for 3–5 minutes until lightly crisp around the edges, then allow the bread to cool slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich

Spread half of the olive salad evenly over the bottom half of the bread.
Layer the fillings in this order:
- Genoa salami
- Mortadella
- Smoked ham
- Provolone cheese
- Mozzarella cheese
Spoon the remaining olive salad evenly over the cheese.
Add tomatoes, basil or rocket if using.
Place the top half of the bread over the fillings.

Step 4: Press the Sandwich

Wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or baking parchment.
Place a heavy skillet or chopping board on top and press for 20–30 minutes. This helps the olive dressing soak into the bread and keeps the layers firmly together.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Remove the wrapping.
Slice into wedges or quarters using a sharp serrated knife.
Serve with extra olive salad, crisps, pickles or a fresh green salad.

Serving Suggestions

Pasta salad
Potato salad
Marinated vegetables
Fresh fruit
Tomato and basil soup
Roasted vegetable soup
Dill pickles
Kettle-cooked crisps
Sparkling lemonade or iced tea

Chef’s Tips

Use a traditional sesame-topped Muffuletta loaf whenever possible for the most authentic texture.
Choose high-quality deli meats and cheeses for the best flavour.
Allow the olive salad to marinate overnight if time permits.
Pressing the sandwich improves both flavour and texture.
Use a serrated bread knife for clean slices without compressing the filling.
Serve at room temperature after refrigeration for the fullest flavour.

Variations

Turkey Muffuletta

Replace the cured meats with sliced roast turkey breast for a lighter alternative.

Vegetarian Muffuletta

Use grilled courgettes, roasted aubergine, marinated artichokes, mozzarella and extra olive salad.

Spicy Muffuletta

Add pepper Jack cheese, sliced jalapeños and extra crushed red pepper flakes.

Mediterranean Style

Add feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach and cucumber for a fresh Mediterranean-inspired variation.

Mini Muffulettas

Prepare individual sandwiches using small round rolls, ideal for picnics or parties.

Storage

Refrigerator: Wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The flavours continue to develop as the sandwich rests.

Freezer: Freezing is not recommended, as the olive salad may make the bread soggy after thawing.

Make Ahead: Prepare the olive salad up to 3 days in advance and assemble the sandwich on the day of serving.

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)

Calories: 620
Protein: 30 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fat: 40 g
Saturated Fat: 12 g
Fibre: 3 g
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 1,350 mg
Cholesterol: 70 mg
Calcium: 350 mg
Iron: 3 mg

Nutrition values are approximate and will vary depending on the brands and quantities used.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Muffuletta?

A Muffuletta is a famous New Orleans sandwich made with a round sesame loaf, Italian cured meats, cheeses and a signature olive salad.

Can I prepare the olive salad in advance?

Yes. It can be made up to three days ahead and tastes even better after marinating overnight.

What bread can I use if I cannot find a Muffuletta loaf?

A large round Italian loaf, rustic country bread or focaccia-style bread all make excellent alternatives.

Can I serve the sandwich warm?

Yes. Warm the assembled sandwich in a 325°F (160°C) oven for about 10 minutes until the cheese softens slightly.

How do I prevent the bread from becoming soggy?

Drain the olive salad well before spreading it onto the bread and avoid adding excessive dressing.

Final Thoughts

The Orleans Italian Muffuletta with Extra Olive Salad is a timeless deli classic that celebrates the bold flavours of New Orleans and the Mediterranean. Packed with layers of premium Italian meats, creamy cheeses and a vibrant olive salad, this hearty sandwich is perfect for sharing and becomes even more delicious as the flavours meld together. Whether served for lunch, a picnic or a relaxed gathering with friends, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.