Description

This Picnic Sandwich with Artichoke Pepper Spread is more than just a meal; it’s a flavor-packed experience that takes you back to childhood picnics. With layers of creamy provolone, savory Coppa, crisp fennel, and a zesty artichoke pepper spread, this sandwich is the ultimate picnic companion. Perfectly structured and made to withstand travel without sogginess, it’s ideal for making ahead and sharing on any outdoor adventure.

Ingredients

For the Artichoke Pepper Spread:

1 (14-oz.) can artichoke hearts, drained and patted dry
1/3 cup Piquanté peppers, quartered
3 cloves garlic
1 tbsp chopped Calabrian chilis
Juice of half a lemon
8–10 fresh basil leaves
5–6 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Kosher salt, to taste

For the Sandwich:

1 (1-lb.) prepared pizza dough
8 oz provolone cheese, thinly sliced
8–9 oz Coppa, thinly sliced
1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves
1 small fennel bulb, thinly sliced (core and stalks removed)

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Instructions

Prep the Pizza Dough
Preheat oven to 425°F. Roll pizza dough into a 7-inch square on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Bake for 12 minutes until golden and puffed. Let cool for 1.5 hours.
Make the Artichoke Pepper Spread
Blend artichoke hearts, Piquanté peppers, garlic, Calabrian chilis, lemon juice, and basil in a food processor until smooth. Add olive oil and season with kosher salt.
Assemble the Sandwich
Slice the cooled bread in half horizontally. Spread the artichoke pepper spread on both halves. Layer the bottom half with provolone, Coppa, parsley, and fennel. Top with the other half of the bread.
Press & Serve
Wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and press it with a heavy pan for 1 hour. Slice into portions and enjoy!

Notes

Make-Ahead Friendly: This sandwich tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge, making it ideal for prepping the night before your picnic.
No Soggy Bread: The pizza dough holds up perfectly against the spread, keeping everything fresh.
Customizable: Swap Coppa for other cured meats or add extra toppings like roasted peppers or pesto.

Prep Time: 1 hour (including dough resting time)
Cook Time: 12 minutes (for baking dough)
Category: Sandwiches, Picnic Foods
Method: Baking, Blending
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Italian-Inspired