Classic Italian Sub

or grinder as we like to call them in New England!

There is a small family-owned Italian restaurant called Ciao Bella and its located over on next block from my old job in the city. Amongst all their delicious Italian style dishes, the most impressive items on their menu were their grinders!

They were so huge! I remember the first time I ordered an Italian Grinder from them. I opened it up and saw a giant loaf of crusty Italian bread, stuffed with a generous helping of Italian meats, hots, and veggies. I remember thinking, "now that's a sandwich!" and then "how in the world am I going to fit this in my mouth?!".

Believe me, I managed to find a way!


Here is my version of their legendary Italian sandwiches. I kept it pretty traditional, but threw in a special spread I picked up from Rachel Ray. I saw her puree a jar of those marinated vegetables you can get in the international aisle at the store and spread it on a sandwich. I knew this was the perfect sandwich to try this out on!

Classic Italian Sub

recipe by Sabrina W. for eat.drink.and be merry. 

serves 2 to 4, depending on how hungry you are :)

1 large loaf of Italian Bread

1/4 lb of genoa salami

1/4 lb proscuitto

1/4 lb ham ( I used boars head rosemary ham)

1/4 lb provolone cheese

1/3 cup banana peppers

2 tomatoes, diced

1 jar marinaded vegetables

1/4 cup pickles (I used wickles because they are sweet and spicy)

mixed greens

2 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette

deli dressing ( I used boars head deli dressing, but you could just add some Italian seasonings to extra virgin olive oil to make your own)

2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese

In a food processor, add marinated vegetables (remove stems of pepperoncinis if necessary) Add pickles, cheese, and a little olive oil and pulse until you form a spread. Chop tomatoes and drizzle with vinaigrette and let sit until ready to use. Slice bread lengthwise and spread vegetables across bottom layer. Top with salami, proscuitto, ham, cheese, and tomatoes. Add pepperonicinis and mixed greens and drizzle with deli dressing. Top with second layer and slice into 4 large pieces.