Name: Italian Chopped Salad Sandwich Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 baguette or ciabatta bread, halved lengthwise; 1 cup romaine lettuce, finely chopped; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, diced; 1/4 cup cucumbers, diced; 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, diced; 1/4 cup black or green olives, sliced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely sliced; 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese; 3 tbsp mayonnaise; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp red wine vinegar; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a perfectly assembled sandwich, and this Italian Chopped Salad Sandwich is the ultimate lunchtime treat. With layers of crisp veggies, creamy dressing, and hearty fillings, this recipe delivers the classic flavors of an Italian chopped salad in a handheld, portable form.

The inspiration for this recipe came from my love of hearty salads paired with crusty bread. Marrying the two into a sandwich just made sense, and now it’s a staple in my household. Let me show you how to create your new favorite sandwich.

Why You'll Love This Italian Chopped Salad Sandwich

Get ready to take your sandwich game to a whole new level. This Italian Chopped Salad Sandwich is everything you want in a meal: fresh, flavorful, and satisfying.

First, the blend of vibrant vegetables and tangy dressing creates a refreshing, bold flavor profile. Crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy cucumbers pair beautifully with creamy mozzarella and zesty peppers, creating a balanced bite every time.

It’s also wonderfully customizable. Whether you prefer extra cheese, more veggies, or a touch of spice, you can adapt this recipe to suit your tastes.

And let’s talk convenience. The prep work is quick, and you can even assemble the filling ahead of time. Perfect for busy days, picnics, or when you want a delicious no-fuss meal.

Finally, this sandwich is the epitome of comfort food with a healthy twist. You’ll love how the hearty bread complements the light, fresh salad filling.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create this Italian-inspired sandwich.

Bread: A sturdy loaf, like ciabatta or focaccia, works best. The bread holds up against the juicy salad filling without becoming soggy. If you prefer individual portions, crusty rolls or baguettes are great options too.

Lettuce: Romaine lettuce is my top pick for its crunch and mild flavor. It forms the foundation of the chopped salad and adds a refreshing element to the sandwich.

Cheese: Fresh mozzarella is a must for this recipe. Its creamy texture and delicate flavor complement the tangy dressing and vibrant veggies perfectly.

Vegetables: A mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and bell peppers ensures every bite is packed with crunch and flavor. For the best taste, use ripe, in-season tomatoes and crisp, fresh cucumbers.

Dressing: A light, homemade vinaigrette ties everything together. With just olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and dried herbs like oregano and basil, you’ll create a dressing that enhances the natural flavors of the salad.

Protein: To keep this sandwich hearty, I recommend roasted or grilled chicken slices. They add a savory element and pair beautifully with the fresh ingredients.

Optional Additions: Sliced black or green olives and pepperoncini peppers add a touch of zest and depth. They’re optional but highly recommended for an authentic Italian vibe.

A sharp knife, cutting board, and mixing bowl are all the tools you’ll need for this recipe. Simple and stress-free!

How To Make This Italian Chopped Salad Sandwich

Making this sandwich is a breeze, and the process will have your kitchen smelling like an Italian deli in no time.

Start by preparing the salad. Chop your romaine lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and bell peppers into small, uniform pieces. Place them all in a large mixing bowl.

Next, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of dried oregano and basil. Pour the dressing over the chopped vegetables and toss everything until well coated. Set aside to let the flavors meld.

Slice your bread in half horizontally, and if you’re using a loaf, cut it into sandwich-sized portions. Hollow out the center of the bread slightly to create space for the filling. This step helps keep everything neat and prevents overflow.

Layer the bottom half of the bread with thinly sliced mozzarella cheese, followed by a generous helping of the chopped salad. If you’re adding roasted chicken, place the slices on top of the salad for extra heartiness.

Finish with any optional ingredients, like sliced olives or pepperoncini peppers, before placing the top half of the bread back on. Press the sandwich gently to compact the filling slightly.

To serve, slice the sandwich into portions, securing each section with a toothpick if needed. This step ensures everything stays in place and makes for an impressive presentation.

This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for both quick meals and entertaining guests.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers or want to prep ahead, this sandwich stores beautifully with a few adjustments.

For the filling, keep the chopped salad mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will develop even more as it sits, making it an even tastier option for day-two lunches.

To store assembled sandwiches, wrap them tightly in parchment paper or plastic wrap to hold everything together. Store in the fridge for up to 24 hours to maintain freshness. Avoid adding dressing until just before serving if you plan to store them longer.

When reheating, use room-temperature ingredients for the best results. Toast the bread lightly before adding the filling if you like a bit of extra crunch.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is highly versatile, so don’t hesitate to make it your own. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add roasted or marinated vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or artichokes for a meat-free version.

Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the dressing or include thinly sliced jalapeños in the filling for a little kick.

Cheese Swap: While mozzarella is a classic choice, you can experiment with provolone, gouda, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Gluten-Free Version: Use your favorite gluten-free bread or wrap to make this sandwich suitable for those avoiding gluten.

Extra Protein: For a protein boost, include hard-boiled egg slices or chickpeas in the chopped salad mix.

The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative. No matter how you customize it, this Italian Chopped Salad Sandwich is sure to impress.