There’s a certain joy that comes with biting into a sandwich bursting with flavors, and my Focaccia Muffuletta is no exception. Inspired by the classic New Orleans creation, I’ve taken it up a notch by swapping the traditional bread for soft, herbed focaccia. The aromatic scent wafts through the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. With layers of succulent cured meats, a zesty Three Olive Tapenade, and creamy provolone cheese, each bite promises a mouthwatering experience that’s as satisfying as it is simple to prepare.
This sandwich is a must-try for picnics, casual gatherings, or even a delightful weekday meal. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—I love whipping it up in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully before serving. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to indulge in a robust, homemade Focaccia Muffuletta that will impress your taste buds and those of your loved ones alike!
Why is Focaccia Muffuletta a Must-Try?
Bold flavors: This Focaccia Muffuletta is packed with a vibrant mix of cured meats and zesty tapenade that will dance on your palate.
Unique twist: Swapping traditional bread for herbed focaccia elevates this classic with aromatic flair.
Make-ahead magic: Prep it in advance to save time and enhance flavor—perfect for busy days or impromptu gatherings.
Crowd-pleaser: Its deliciousness appeals to everyone, making it an ideal centerpiece for picnics or parties.
Easy assembly: With simple steps, you’ll have a stunning sandwich that looks as impressive as it tastes. Treat yourself to this delightful creation!
Focaccia Muffuletta Ingredients
For the Herbed Focaccia
• Herbed Focaccia – This aromatic bread adds a delightful flavor profile; store-bought works if you’re short on time.
For the Three Olive Tapenade
• Green Olives (1 Cup) – These briny gems give the tapenade its savory depth; feel free to mix with other types of olives to suit your taste.
• Black Olives (¼ Cup) – Adds a touch of richness; you can substitute with any variety you prefer.
• Kalamata Olives (¼ Cup) – Contributes a robust flavor and pairs beautifully with the green olives; adjust amounts to your liking.
• Capers (1 Teaspoon) – A sharp, tangy accent that enhances the overall taste; optional but recommended.
• Garlic (1 Clove, Grated) – Infuses the tapenade with aromatic richness; fresh or powdered garlic can be used interchangeably.
• Olive Oil (¼ Cup) – Helps to bring together the tapenade ingredients while adding a touch of richness; alternatives exist but may adjust the flavor.
• Lemon Juice (1 Tablespoon) – Brightens the tapenade and adds necessary acidity; lime juice is a suitable substitute.
• Parsley (¼ Cup, Minced) – Offers freshness and a splash of color; basil or cilantro can be an alternative if you prefer.
For the Cured Meats
• Sweet Soppressata (4 oz) – Introduces a mildly spicy kick; swap for any preferred salami if desired.
• Sweet Capicola (4 oz) – Brings robust flavor to your sandwich; can be replaced with prosciutto or other deli meats.
• Genoa Salami (4 oz) – A classic choice, bringing a familiar taste; feel free to use any other type of salami that you love.
• Smoked Deli Ham (8 oz) – Enhances the sandwich with a smoky essence; consider turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
For the Cheese
• Provolone Cheese (14 oz) – This mild cheese melts beautifully and complements the sandwich flavors; mozzarella or havarti can be great substitutions.
How to Make Focaccia Muffuletta
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Prepare the Tapenade: In a food processor, blend the green, black, and kalamata olives, capers, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and parsley until you reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste—aim for a mix that’s both tangy and rich!
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Assemble the Muffuletta: Slice the herbed focaccia in half lengthwise. Layer the cured meats evenly over the bottom half, creating a hearty base. Next, add slices of provolone cheese, and generously spread the Three Olive Tapenade on top for that zesty kick.
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Finish: Place the top half of the focaccia on the assembled layers and cut into 12 manageable sandwich sizes. You can serve immediately for a fresh experience or refrigerate until serving to let those flavors meld beautifully.
Optional: Pair with pickles or a side salad for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Focaccia Muffuletta?
Elevate your meal with the perfect accompaniments that enhance the delightful flavors of this sandwich.
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Crisp Green Salad: A fresh, crunchy salad with vibrant greens and a light vinaigrette perfectly balances the richness of the Muffuletta.
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Tangy Pickles: The zesty crunch of dill pickles cuts through the savory layers, adding a satisfying contrast to each bite.
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Chips and Dip: Serve with a refreshing dip, like hummus or tzatziki, for a tasty texture contrast that adds to the overall experience.
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Sweet Fruit Salad: Juicy fruits like melon and berries bring a sweet note that complements the savory flavors, creating a beautiful harmony on your plate.
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Sparkling Lemonade: A glass of fizzy lemonade adds brightness, cooling down the flavorful intensity and making it feel like a special gathering.
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Roasted Vegetable Platter: Roasted seasonal vegetables drizzled with olive oil are not only colorful but also provide a warm, comforting side that marries well with the sandwich.
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Potato Wedges: Crispy wedges seasoned with herbs bring a satisfying crunch and hold up well against the sandwich’s softness, making them an appealing side choice.
Pair any of these delightful options with your Focaccia Muffuletta for a satisfying and complete meal!
How to Store and Freeze Focaccia Muffuletta
Fridge: Store your Focaccia Muffuletta tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 2 days to keep it fresh and prevent it from getting soggy.
Freezer: If you want to freeze it for later, wrap individual sandwiches in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months; just be sure to thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Reheating: To reheat, take the sandwich out of the fridge or freezer and let it come to room temperature. Then, wrap it in foil and warm it up in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This will help retain the bread’s softness!
Make-Ahead: If preparing for later, assemble your Focaccia Muffuletta without the tapenade and keep it separately; add the tapenade just before serving for maximum flavor impact.
Make Ahead Options
These Focaccia Muffuletta sandwiches are fantastic for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the Three Olive Tapenade up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate it in a sealed container to maintain its fresh flavors. The herbed focaccia can also be baked a day ahead, allowing it to cool completely before tightly wrapping it in plastic wrap to keep it soft. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the layers of cured meats, provolone, and the chilled tapenade, then slice the sandwich into portions. This way, you’ll enjoy the same deliciousness with minimal effort on busy days!
Focaccia Muffuletta Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore delightful twists on your Focaccia Muffuletta recipe with these creative variations!
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread as a substitute for focaccia to accommodate dietary needs while enjoying the same great flavors.
- Vegetarian Delight: Replace cured meats with grilled vegetables like eggplant and zucchini, or even add hummus for a creamy texture. It’s delicious!
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the tapenade for those who love some heat. Just a little zing!
- Cheese Swap: Try replacing provolone with aged cheddar or gouda for a richer, bolder flavor that enhances every bite. Your taste buds will thank you!
- Olive Twist: Explore different varieties of olives, such as sun-dried tomatoes or pepperoncini, to boost the tapenade’s flavors and add complexity.
- Herbed Infusion: Experiment by incorporating fresh basil or thyme directly into the focaccia dough for added herbal notes. It’s incredibly aromatic!
- Nutty Addition: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts into the tapenade for a delightful crunch and a boost of healthy fats. What a perfect crunch!
- Savory Spreads: Consider a spread of pesto or a balsamic glaze alongside the tapenade for a delightful flavor contrast. So many layers of taste!
Expert Tips for Focaccia Muffuletta
- Prep Ahead: Make the tapenade and focaccia a day in advance to enhance the flavors and save time during assembly.
- Avoid Over-processing: When blending the tapenade, pulse the ingredients gently to maintain texture. Over-processing can lead to a mushy spread.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the assembled sandwiches for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This helps the flavors meld and improves overall taste.
- Customize Ingredients: Feel free to mix and match cured meats and cheeses to suit your preferences; the Focaccia Muffuletta is versatile and inviting!
- Storage Tips: Store wrapped sandwiches in the fridge for up to 2 days without them becoming soggy. Enjoy this delectable treat at your convenience!
Focaccia Muffuletta Recipe FAQs
What type of olives should I use for the tapenade?
Absolutely! For the tapenade, I recommend using a mix of green, black, and Kalamata olives for a robust flavor. However, you can certainly substitute with your favorite olives—whether they are green or black. Just make sure that the olives are pitted, and feel free to tweak the proportions to suit your taste!
How long can I store my assembled Focaccia Muffuletta in the fridge?
Very! The assembled Focaccia Muffuletta can be tightly wrapped and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just make sure it’s sealed well to prevent it from becoming soggy. Since this recipe doesn’t contain mayonnaise or wet ingredients, it holds up beautifully!
Can I freeze Focaccia Muffuletta?
Definitely! To freeze your Focaccia Muffuletta, wrap individual sandwiches tightly in foil, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it overnight in the fridge. For reheating, let the sandwich reach room temperature, then warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
What if I don’t have a food processor for the tapenade?
No problem! If you don’t have a food processor, you can finely chop all the ingredients by hand. Simply mince the olives, capers, and garlic, then mix them in a bowl, adding olive oil, lemon juice, and parsley next. Just remember to chop them finely to achieve a similar texture to the tapenade.
Can I make a vegetarian version of Focaccia Muffuletta?
Absolutely! For a delightful vegetarian twist, try using grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers in place of the cured meats. You can also spread hummus or a creamy cheese alternative to mimic the flavor profile, ensuring your Focaccia Muffuletta remains both satisfying and flavorful without meat.
Is Focaccia Muffuletta safe for pets?
Good question! While the ingredients in the Focaccia Muffuletta are generally safe, it’s best to keep it away from pets. Certain components like garlic can be harmful to dogs in larger amounts. Always consult with your veterinarian before sharing human food with your furry friends to ensure they stay safe!
Mouthwatering Focaccia Muffuletta: Your New Favorite Sandwich
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Tapenade: Blend green, black, and kalamata olives, capers, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and parsley in a food processor until desired consistency is reached. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble the Muffuletta: Slice the herbed focaccia in half lengthwise. Layer the cured meats on the bottom half. Add provolone cheese, and spread the Three Olive Tapenade on top.
- Finish: Place the top half on the layers and cut into 12 sandwich sizes. Serve immediately or refrigerate to enhance flavors.