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End-of-the-Week Deli Sandwich

This toasted deli sandwich is the ultimate solution for a satisfying, high-protein lunch that uses up the last of your fridge staples. Built on a base of crusty ciabatta or focaccia, the bread is spread with a savoury pesto-mayonnaise blend and topped with generous layers of Italian-style meats and melted cheese. The heat from the oven transforms the loaf, creating a crisp exterior that contrasts beautifully with the cool, fresh layers of peppery rocket and sliced tomatoes.

Perfect for weekend entertaining or a hearty family meal, this versatile recipe works well with any combination of shop-bought charcuterie, such as salami, mortadella, or prosciutto. The addition of pickled chillies and red onion provides a sharp, tangy lift that cuts through the richness of the cheese. Serve this substantial toasted sub on its own or with a simple side salad for a quick and comforting dinner.

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Ingredients for End-of-the-Week Deli Sandwich

  • 450g ciabatta, focaccia, or pain rustique, cut horizontally in half

  • 80g pesto or roasted red pepper spread

  • 30g mayonnaise

  • 8 thin cheese slices (such as Jack, Swiss, or Havarti)

  • 250g assorted deli meats (such as salami, mortadella, prosciutto, ham, and turkey)

  • 100g sliced drained peperoncini or pickled jalape&ntlde

  • o chillies

  • Thinly sliced red onion

  • Sliced tomatoes

  • Rocket or other lettuce

Preheat oven to 204°C. Place bread, cut side up, on baking sheet. Mix pesto and mayonnaise in small bowl; spread over both cut sides of bread. Arrange cheese on bottom half of bread. Bake bread halves until lightly toasted, about 10 minutes. Top cheese with meats, then peperoncini, onion, tomatoes, and rocket. Cover with top half of bread. Cut lengthwise in half, then crosswise into 6 sandwiches.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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