A customizable submarine sandwich made with French bread, Italian meats, Swiss cheese, and fresh vegetables dressed in creamy Italian dressing. Let everyone assemble their own perfect ratio of toppings.
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Instructions
1
Cut bread horizontally in half. Spread butter over bottom half.
2
Layer cheese, salami, lettuce, tomatoes, onion, ham and bell pepper on bread.
3
Drizzle with dressing. Top with remaining bread half. Secure loaf with picks. Cut into 6 serving pieces.
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Tips & Notes
Pro tips
Butter the bread lightly before layering — it adds flavor and creates a barrier against moisture from vegetables and dressing.
Layer meats and cheese first, then vegetables — this prevents the bread from absorbing excess liquid and keeps the sandwich structurally sound.
Slice tomatoes and onions thin and pat them dry with paper towels to reduce water content and prevent sogginess.
Dress the sandwich just before serving or eating to maintain bread texture and structural integrity.
Substitutions
Swiss cheese → provolone or mozzarella (milder flavor, equally melty)
Salami → capicola, mortadella, or pepperoni (spicier or different cured meat profile)
Creamy Italian dressing → balsamic vinaigrette or mayonnaise-based herb spread (lighter or tangier option)
Storage & make-ahead
Wrap assembled sandwich tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate up to 4 hours. For longer storage, keep components separate and assemble fresh.
Common Questions
Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it up to 2 hours ahead and wrap in foil to keep it fresh. Add the Italian dressing just before serving to prevent sogginess.
What's the best way to slice the bread?
Use a serrated bread knife and slice lengthwise to create two long halves, or cut the loaf into individual portions if serving multiple people.
Can I substitute the meats?
Yes. Try capicola, mortadella, or roast beef instead of salami and ham for different flavor profiles.
How do I prevent the sandwich from getting soggy?
Butter the bread lightly, add cheese and meats first to create a barrier, then layer vegetables. Dress just before eating.
Can this feed a crowd?
Yes. Increase ingredients proportionally or use a larger loaf. Set up a sandwich station and let guests customize their own.