The Original Italian from Jersey Mike's features a flavorful blend of provolone, ham, prosciuttini, cappacuolo, salami, and pepperoni, layered with crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, onions, and a zesty red wine vinaigrette, all nestled inside a freshly baked, crusty sub roll, delivering a classic Italian deli experience with bold, savory flavors and satisfying textures.
Equipments
- Meat slicer
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Sandwich prep table
- Vegetable slicer
- Bread knife
- Scale (optional)
- Tongs
- Squeeze bottle (for vinaigrette)
- Serving tray or plate
Ingredients
- Provolone cheese
- Ham
- Prosciuttini
- Cappacuolo
- Salami
- Pepperoni
- Lettuce
- Tomatoes
- Onions
- Red wine vinegar
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Dried oregano
- Sub roll
Ensuring the freshness and quality of provolone, ham, prosciuttini, cappacuolo, salami, and pepperoni is key to replicating the vibrant flavors of The Original Italian from Jersey Mike's. Use crisp, fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and onions to maintain the sandwich's signature texture and taste. Preparing the red wine vinaigrette with the right balance of red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and dried oregano will enhance the sandwich's zesty flavor profile. Proper slicing and layering with a meat slicer, vegetable slicer, or sharp knife can elevate the presentation and eating experience. Your copycat version of The Original Italian from Jersey Mike's will shine by following these ingredient tips closely.
Instructions
- Wash hands and sanitize all equipment and surfaces.
- Preheat oven (if using warm subs) and slice sub roll lengthwise using bread knife.
- Slice provolone, ham, prosciuttini, cappacuolo, salami, and pepperoni using meat slicer to desired thickness.
- Prepare lettuce (rinse, dry, and shred), tomatoes (wash and slice), and onions (peel and thinly slice) using vegetable slicer and knife.
- Place sub roll open-faced on sandwich prep table.
- Layer provolone cheese evenly onto bottom half of sub roll.
- Add ham, prosciuttini, cappacuolo, salami, and pepperoni in even layers over cheese.
- Top with shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and sliced onions.
- Combine red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and oregano in squeeze bottle to prepare vinaigrette.
- Drizzle vinaigrette evenly over vegetables using squeeze bottle.
- Close sub roll and gently press together.
- Slice sandwich in half, if desired, using bread knife.
- Transfer sub to serving tray or plate using tongs.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Original Italian from Jersey Mike's copycat menu offers a classic deli sandwich experience with layers of provolone, ham, prosciuttini, cappacuolo, salami, and pepperoni on a crusty sub roll. If some cured meats are unavailable, you can substitute with other Italian-style cold cuts like mortadella or soppressata to maintain a similar flavor profile. When slicing vegetables, ensure uniform thickness for even texture and balance in every bite. Using a squeeze bottle for the red wine vinaigrette allows precise dressing distribution, preventing soggy bread. Your sandwich prep table should be organized to streamline assembly and preserve ingredient freshness.
Tips
Ensure all meats are sliced uniformly using the meat slicer for consistent texture and even flavor distribution. Wash and thoroughly dry vegetables to maintain crispness and prevent sogginess inside your sub. Use a squeeze bottle for the vinaigrette to control the amount and achieve an even drizzle without oversaturating the bread. When layering ingredients, place cheese directly on the bread first to create a barrier that helps keep the roll from becoming soggy.
Nutritions
The Original Italian from Jersey Mike's provides a rich source of protein from its combination of provolone cheese, ham, prosciuttini, cappacuolo, salami, and pepperoni, contributing to muscle repair and satiety. Your intake is boosted with vitamins and fiber from fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and onions, promoting digestive health and supporting the immune system. The red wine vinaigrette incorporates heart-healthy olive oil and antioxidants from red wine vinegar and oregano. This sub offers a balanced mix of macronutrients and micronutrients to keep you energized throughout the day.
Storage
Store the sandwich wrapped tightly in parchment paper or plastic wrap to maintain freshness and prevent the crusty roll from becoming soggy. Refrigerate immediately and consume within 24 hours to ensure the deli meats and fresh vegetables stay safe and flavorful. Your best option for preserving the zesty vinaigrette's taste is to keep it separate and apply just before serving.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute provolone cheese with fresh mozzarella or aged Parmesan for a different texture and flavor profile. Instead of the red wine vinaigrette, try using balsamic glaze or a creamy Italian dressing to add a sweeter or richer taste. Consider toasting the sub roll lightly before assembling to enhance its crunch and warmth. For a lunchbox-friendly version, wrap the sandwich tightly in parchment paper to keep it fresh and easy to handle.
Allergies
The Original Italian from Jersey Mike's contains multiple common allergens including dairy from provolone cheese and gluten from the sub roll, which may affect individuals with lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity. Processed meats like ham, prosciuttini, cappacuolo, salami, and pepperoni may also pose a risk for those sensitive to preservatives or nitrates. If you have food allergies or intolerances, it's important to verify ingredient details to avoid adverse reactions.
Why this recipe?
The Original Italian sub from Jersey Mike's is highly praised for its authentic blend of provolone, ham, prosciuttini, cappacuolo, salami, and pepperoni, layered with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and a signature red wine vinegar dressing on freshly baked bread. The carefully balanced flavors and high-quality ingredients create a rich, savory experience that captures the essence of classic Italian deli sandwiches. Making a copycat version allows you to replicate these bold, vibrant tastes at home while customizing the sandwich to your preference. Your effort to recreate this iconic menu item is worthwhile for savoring an authentic Italian sandwich without the restaurant price.