Spicy Soppressata & Gouda Italian Sub
Spicy Soppressata & Gouda Italian Sub is an Italian-American tradition, reimagined with Roman culinary principles. Crafted with savory mortadella, spicy soppressata, aged Gouda, and a vibrant basil-anchovy aioli, this recipe delivers a burst of authentic Italian flavors that energize and satisfy.
Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s the pinnacle of lunch/dinner elegance.
The Story Behind Spicy Soppressata & Gouda Italian Sub
How to Make Spicy Soppressata & Gouda Italian Sub
Follow our traditional Roman technique for perfect results
Ingredients
- 3 oil-packed anchovy fillets, drained
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup loosely packed basil leaves
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1½ tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- ¾ pound mortadella, thinly sliced
- ½ pound spicy soppressata, thinly sliced
- ⅓ pound aged Gouda cheese, thinly sliced
- 1 cup packed parsley leaves
- 1 12-inch long Italian bread with sesame seeds, split lengthwise, hollowed out and toasted
The Preparation
- **Prepare the Basil-Anchovy Aioli:** In a small food processor or with a mortar and pestle, combine the drained anchovy fillets, mayonnaise, basil leaves, extra virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Blend until smooth and creamy. Season with a pinch of salt and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper to taste. Set aside.
- **Toast the Bread:** Preheat your oven or toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully split the Italian bread lengthwise and gently hollow out some of the soft interior to create a cradle for the fillings. Toast for 3-5 minutes, or until lightly golden and crisp, but not overly hard. This creates a perfect barrier against moisture.
- **Assemble the Foundation:** Spread a generous layer of the prepared basil-anchovy aioli evenly on both cut sides of the toasted Italian bread.
- **Layer the Meats and Cheese:** Begin by layering the thinly sliced mortadella onto the bottom half of the bread. Follow with the spicy soppressata, creating a rich and flavorful foundation. Top these with the thinly sliced aged Gouda cheese, ensuring even coverage.
- **Add Freshness:** Arrange the packed parsley leaves over the cheese. The fresh herbs add a vital burst of flavor and a beautiful contrasting texture.
- **Close and Serve:** Carefully bring the top half of the bread over the fillings, pressing down gently to compact the sub. Slice the 12-inch sub into 2-4 portions, depending on desired serving size. Serve immediately to enjoy the peak freshness and texture.
Expert Tips for Best Results
For an irresistible crunch and to prevent the bread from becoming soggy, always toast your Italian bread until it’s lightly golden. Hollowing out a small amount of the interior also creates a perfect cavity for fillings, ensuring a balanced bite every time.
The homemade basil-anchovy aioli is the secret weapon here. The anchovies melt into the sauce, providing a subtle umami depth that elevates the entire sandwich without tasting overtly fishy. Don’t skip the lemon zest for a bright finish.
While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the aioli up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Assemble the sub just before serving to maintain optimal bread texture and prevent sogginess.
Kcal
Wellness Note
While this sub is a hearty meal, it embodies key Mediterranean principles: high-quality ingredients, robust flavors, and enjoyment. The extra virgin olive oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, and fresh basil and parsley add valuable antioxidants. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this recipe authentic?
Absolutely. While the Italian sub itself is an iconic Italian-American creation, our recipe elevates it through a Gustoli lens. We focus on sourcing authentic, high-quality Italian meats and cheeses, crafting a fresh basil-anchovy aioli that speaks to our commitment to traditional flavors and culinary excellence.
Can I make it ahead?
For the best texture and flavor, we recommend assembling this sub just before serving. However, the basil-anchovy aioli can be made 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you must prep components, keep meats, cheese, and herbs separate, and toast the bread fresh.
Is it healthy?
This sub is designed for satisfying enjoyment! While rich in flavor and calories, it incorporates elements aligned with a balanced diet: healthy fats from extra virgin olive oil, protein from quality meats, and vibrant antioxidants from fresh herbs. Enjoy it as a fulfilling meal, paired perhaps with a light side salad, embracing the Mediterranean philosophy of savoring high-quality food in moderation.
Years
Alessia Valentini
Born in the heart of Tuscany and raised between the flour-dusted counters of my grandmother’s kitchen, I’ve spent my life chasing the perfect balance of authentic Italian tradition and modern nutritional science.
Gustoli is my mission: to prove that you can honor the deep, sun-drenched flavors of Italy while fueling a healthy, vibrant lifestyle.
Alessia Valentini
