Italian Feast from Schlotzsky's features savory turkey, ham, and salami layered with melted provolone cheese, fresh lettuce, tomato, and zesty Italian dressing, all nestled inside freshly baked artisan bread for a hearty and flavorful meal.
Equipments
- Oven
- Bread knife
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Slicer (for meats and cheese)
- Spatula or sandwich press (optional, for melting cheese)
- Mixing bowl (for tossing lettuce and dressing, optional)
- Serving tray or plate
Ingredients
- 8 slices turkey breast
- 8 slices ham
- 8 slices salami
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- 1 small head romaine lettuce
- 2 medium tomatoes
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing
- 1 large artisan sandwich loaf (such as ciabatta or sourdough)
When preparing the Italian Feast from Schlotzsky's, use freshly sliced deli meats like turkey, ham, and salami for authentic flavor and texture. Provolone cheese should be sliced evenly and can be lightly melted to enhance taste, using a sandwich press or oven. Choose a sturdy artisan sandwich loaf such as ciabatta or sourdough to hold all ingredients without becoming soggy. Fresh romaine lettuce and ripe tomatoes add a crisp, refreshing contrast to the savory meats and zesty Italian dressing. Your careful selection of these ingredients will ensure a hearty and flavorful Italian Feast that closely replicates the original Schlotzsky's favorite.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice artisan sandwich loaf horizontally using bread knife.
- Arrange bottom half of bread on cutting board.
- Layer turkey breast, ham, and salami evenly over bread.
- Place provolone cheese slices on top of meats.
- (Optional) Use spatula or sandwich press to gently press and slightly melt cheese; or place open sandwich in oven until cheese is melted, about 3-5 minutes.
- While cheese melts, wash and dry romaine lettuce.
- Chop or tear lettuce into bite-sized pieces.
- Slice tomatoes into thin rounds.
- In mixing bowl (optional), toss lettuce with Italian dressing, or drizzle dressing over lettuce.
- Arrange dressed lettuce and tomato slices over melted cheese and meats.
- Place top half of bread loaf onto sandwich.
- Press down gently to secure layers.
- Slice sandwich into portions using bread knife.
- Transfer to serving tray or plate.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Italian Feast from Schlotzsky's copycat menu combines turkey, ham, salami, provolone cheese, and fresh vegetables inside artisan bread for a delicious sandwich experience. If you don't have artisan bread, focaccia or a sturdy baguette can work as suitable alternatives. When fresh romaine is unavailable, iceberg lettuce or spinach can provide a similar crunch and freshness. You can substitute provolone with mozzarella or Swiss cheese if needed, and use any mild Italian dressing or vinaigrette to maintain that zesty flavor. For a melted cheese effect, use a sandwich press, but if unavailable, briefly heating in the oven or using a spatula to press the sandwich on a hot pan also works well.
Tips
Ensure the artisan bread loaf is sliced evenly to maintain structure and avoid sandwich collapse when layering meats and cheese. When melting provolone cheese, keep the oven temperature consistent at 350degF and monitor for 3-5 minutes to achieve a perfect melt without overcooking or drying out the sandwich. Tossing the romaine lettuce with Italian dressing before layering helps distribute flavor evenly, so your sandwich remains vibrant and moist. Use a serrated bread knife for clean slices to prevent the artisan bread from tearing or compressing under pressure.
Nutritions
The Italian Feast from Schlotzsky's combines lean turkey, ham, and salami, providing a rich source of protein essential for muscle repair and energy. Provolone cheese adds calcium and vitamin D, supporting bone health, while fresh romaine lettuce and tomatoes supply dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants to boost your immune system. The artisan bread offers carbohydrates for sustained energy, but watch portion sizes if you're monitoring calorie intake. You can enjoy a balanced meal rich in macronutrients and micronutrients with this hearty sandwich.
Storage
Store any leftover Italian Feast sandwich components separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Keep deli meats and provolone cheese refrigerated at or below 40degF (4degC) and wrap artisan bread tightly in plastic or foil to prevent drying out. Your prepared sandwich is best enjoyed immediately, but assembling just before serving ensures optimal flavor and texture.
Variation or Alternatives
Substitute mozzarella or fontina cheese instead of provolone for a creamier texture. Swap artisan bread with a whole wheat baguette to add more fiber to Your meal. For enhanced flavor, marinate the turkey and ham slices briefly in Italian dressing before layering. Toast the sandwich in a panini press to achieve a crispier exterior and perfectly melted cheese.
Allergies
The Italian Feast from Schlotzsky's contains common allergens such as dairy from provolone cheese and gluten from the artisan sandwich loaf. Processed meats like turkey, ham, and salami may contain preservatives or additives that can trigger allergic reactions in some individuals. You should carefully check ingredient labels or consult with the restaurant if you have food allergies related to dairy, gluten, or processed meats.
Why this recipe?
The Italian Feast menu from Schlotzsky's restaurant is celebrated for its authentic blend of traditional Italian flavors, fresh ingredients, and perfectly balanced spices. You'll enjoy hearty sandwiches filled with premium meats, melted cheeses, and flavorful sauces that deliver a satisfying and comforting meal. Making a copycat version at home allows you to recreate this delicious experience while customizing flavors to your preference and enjoying it at a fraction of the cost. Replicating the Italian Feast gives you the opportunity to explore culinary creativity and impress friends and family with a taste of Schlotzsky's signature menu.