Italiano Panini from Wawa features layers of savory Genoa salami, capicola, and provolone cheese nestled between freshly toasted ciabatta bread, offering a flavorful blend of Italian deli meats with a warm, crispy texture.
Equipments
- Panini press or sandwich grill
- Bread knife
- Meat slicer
- Cheese slicer
- Cutting board
- Food prep gloves
- Spatula/tongs
- Oven (optional, for pre-toasting ciabatta)
Ingredients
- 4 oz (115g) Genoa salami
- 3 oz (85g) capicola
- 2 slices provolone cheese
- 1 ciabatta roll
- 6 slices Genoa salami
- 4 slices capicola
- 3 slices provolone cheese
- 1 ciabatta roll
Ensure you use high-quality Genoa salami and capicola to replicate the authentic savory Italian deli flavors in your panini. Fresh provolone cheese adds a creamy texture that complements the salty meats, while a freshly toasted ciabatta roll provides the perfect crispy base. You may want to pre-toast the ciabatta in an oven or panini press for the desired warm and crunchy texture. Using a meat and cheese slicer will help you achieve uniform layers, making your sandwich visually appealing and easier to eat. Your Italiano Panini from Wawa copycat menu will capture the classic taste and satisfying texture of the original when these ingredients and techniques are carefully combined.
Instructions
- **Instructions:**
- Put on food prep gloves.
- Slice the ciabatta roll in half using a bread knife.
- Arrange 6 slices of Genoa salami evenly on the bottom half of the ciabatta.
- Layer 4 slices of capicola on top of the salami.
- Place 3 slices of provolone cheese over the meats.
- Close the ciabatta roll with the top half.
- Preheat the panini press or sandwich grill.
- Place the assembled sandwich on the press.
- Grill until the bread is toasted and cheese is melted (about 3–5 minutes).
- Remove the panini using a spatula or tongs.
- Slice the panini in half for serving.
- Serve warm.
Substitution
Creating your own Italiano Panini inspired by Wawa allows you to customize the blend of Genoa salami, capicola, and provolone cheese to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. If provolone cheese is unavailable, try substituting with mozzarella or fontina for a similarly mild, creamy texture. When ciabatta bread is not on hand, a crusty French baguette or a sturdy sourdough roll can provide a comparable crispy exterior and soft interior. Using a panini press will yield the best toasted result, but you can also toast the sandwich under a broiler or in a skillet with a weighted lid. Make sure to slice your meats and cheeses evenly, which helps ensure consistent layering and even melting throughout your sandwich.
Tips
When layering your Italiano Panini, ensure even distribution of Genoa salami, capicola, and provolone cheese to maintain balanced flavors in every bite. Using a properly preheated panini press guarantees a crispy ciabatta crust while effectively melting the cheese without overcooking the meats. Always handle the sandwich with a spatula or tongs to avoid burning your fingers and to keep the panini intact. Your sandwich will benefit from slicing ciabatta carefully with a bread knife to prevent crushing the bread texture before grilling.
Nutritions
Italiano Panini from Wawa provides a rich source of protein and fat mainly from Genoa salami, capicola, and provolone cheese, totaling approximately 400-600 calories per sandwich depending on portion size. The ciabatta bread adds carbohydrates and dietary fiber, contributing to maintaining energy levels throughout your day. Sodium content can be high due to the cured meats, so it's important to consider this in your daily intake if you monitor salt consumption. Including this panini in your meals delivers a flavorful balance of macronutrients while satisfying your cravings for a warm, savory sandwich.
Storage
Store your Italiano Panini wrapped tightly in parchment paper or aluminum foil to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. Keep it refrigerated for up to 24 hours, ensuring the bread retains its crispy texture when reheated. Reheat in a panini press or oven for a few minutes to restore the warm, melted cheese and toasted bread experience.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap provolone cheese with mozzarella or fontina for a creamier melt and slightly different flavor profile. Try adding a spread like pesto or roasted garlic mayo inside the ciabatta to enhance the sandwich's richness. For a healthier option, switch Genoa salami and capicola to turkey or chicken breast slices while maintaining the layering technique. Using an oven to pre-toast the ciabatta before assembling can give an extra crunch to your Italiano Panini.
Allergies
Your Italiano Panini from Wawa contains common allergens such as dairy from provolone cheese and gluten from the ciabatta bread. Individuals with allergies to pork or cured meats should also be cautious due to the Genoa salami and capicola. Cross-contamination risks may exist depending on preparation, so always inform staff about your allergies before ordering.
Why this recipe?
The Italiano Panini from Wawa features authentic Italian ingredients like Genoa salami, capicola, and provolone cheese, which create a rich and satisfying flavor profile. The sandwich is toasted to perfection, delivering a crispy exterior while preserving the melty, savory interior. Many customers appreciate the convenient combination of high-quality deli meats and fresh bread that captures traditional Italian taste. Your copycat version can replicate this beloved flavor, providing an affordable and customizable alternative to the Wawa classic.