Skip to main content

Grilled Ham, Cheese, and Salami with Caper Relish

This substantial grilled sandwich is a sophisticated take on a classic toastie, offering a bold combination of savoury flavours. Inspired by the traditional flavours of an Italian deli, it features layers of Genoa salami and Black Forest ham paired with melted provolone. The addition of a sharp, salty relish made from green olives, capers, and peperoncini cuts through the richness of the meat, while fresh iceberg lettuce adds a refreshing crunch.

As a high-protein lunch or dinner option, this toasted ciabatta is perfect for sharing. Pressing the sandwich in a heavy frying pan ensures the bread becomes perfectly crisp and golden while the cheeses melt into the relish. Serve these warm quarters with any remaining herb dressing for a satisfying homemade meal that feels truly indulgent.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Grilled Ham, Cheese, and Salami with Caper Relish

  • 120ml olive oil

  • 45ml white wine vinegar

  • 1 large shallot, minced

  • 4 teaspoons minced fresh oregano

  • 1 rectangular 10x7x1 1/2-inch bread loaf (such as ciabatta)

  • 90g sliced provolone cheese

  • 110g sliced Italian Genoa salami

  • 110g sliced Black Forest ham

  • 45ml finely chopped pitted brine-cured green olives

  • 45ml capers, chopped

  • 45ml minced peperoncini

  • 45ml butter, room temperature

  • 90g Teleme or Fontina cheese, grated (about 1 cup)

  • 1 cup thinly sliced iceberg lettuce

How to make Grilled Ham, Cheese, and Salami with Caper Relish

Whisk first 4 ingredients in small bowl; season dressing with salt and pepper.

Cut top crust (about 1/3 inch) off bread and discard. Cut bread horizontally in half. Arrange provolone cheese on cut side of bottom half, covering completely. Top with layer of salami, then ham. Mix olives, capers, and peperoncini in small bowl; spread relish over ham. Press top half of bread, cut side down, atop relish; spread with 1 1/2 tablespoons butter.

Heat heavy large skillet over medium heat 3 minutes. Place sandwich, buttered side down, in skillet. Using another skillet, press sandwich to compact slightly. Cook until golden, about 5 minutes. Spread top of sandwich with remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons butter. Using large spatula, turn sandwich over. Press again with second skillet. Cook until bottom is golden and cheese melts, about 5 minutes.

Transfer sandwich to work surface. Lift off bread top; sprinkle with Teleme cheese, lettuce, and dressing. Press bread top onto sandwich and cut into quarters.

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.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.