Muffuletta spread is the flavorful heart of the famous New Orleans muffuletta sandwich, but its versatility has expanded far beyond just sandwiches. This tangy, olive-based spread is a blend of Mediterranean ingredients, providing a burst of savory, briny flavors that can be used in appetizers, as a topping, or even in salads. In this guide, we will dive into the essential ingredients of muffuletta spread, explore how to make it at home, and provide ideas for using it in your next meal.
If you love Mediterranean-inspired spreads, you may also enjoy this olive salad recipe as a delicious, versatile side dish.
What is Muffuletta Spread?
Muffuletta spread originated in the Italian immigrant communities of New Orleans. Traditionally, it is used in the muffuletta sandwich, which consists of layers of salami, ham, provolone cheese, and olive salad spread in a round loaf of Italian bread. The spread itself is a chunky mixture of olives, pickled vegetables, and herbs, all combined to deliver a punch of flavor.
For a deeper dive into how the spread complements the famous muffuletta sandwich, check out this comprehensive guide to muffuletta.
Key Ingredients of Muffuletta Spread
Muffuletta spread is a well-balanced combination of tangy and salty flavors, making it perfect for various uses beyond the sandwich. Below is a breakdown of the key ingredients used to make this spread:
1. Olives
- Olives are the star of this spread. The blend typically includes both green olives and black olives, often pimento-stuffed green olives and drained black olives. These olives provide the briny, salty base that defines the spread.
- You can substitute different varieties of olives, such as Kalamata or Castelvetrano, for a twist on the traditional flavor.
2. Olive Oil
- Extra virgin olive oil is essential for giving the spread its smooth texture and rich flavor. The oil binds the other ingredients together, making the spread both creamy and robust.
3. Capers
- Capers add a tangy, briny punch, boosting the savory profile of the olives. Their distinct, salty flavor is key to balancing the spread.
4. Red Wine Vinegar
- The acidity from red wine vinegar brightens up the overall flavor, cutting through the richness of the oil and olives.
5. Shallots and Garlic
- Shallots add a mild onion-like flavor, while garlic provides depth and a bit of heat, creating a perfect complement to the olives and capers.
6. Fresh Oregano
- Oregano is a traditional Mediterranean herb that adds freshness and earthiness to the spread.
7. Genoa Salami and Ham (Optional)
- Some versions of this spread incorporate thinly sliced salami and ham, adding a rich, umami component to the spread.
How to Make Muffuletta Spread
Ingredients:
- 1 cup chopped green olives
- ¾ cup chopped black olives, drained
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons chopped capers
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 small shallot, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: ¼ pound thinly sliced Genoa salami and deli ham for added flavor
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Chop the olives, capers, shallot, and also garlic. If using, chop the Genoa salami and ham into small pieces.
- Mix the Base: In a medium bowl, combine the olives, olive oil, capers, red wine vinegar, shallot, garlic in addition to oregano. Then stir well to combine.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting based on the brininess of the olives and capers.
- Optional Meats: If using salami and ham, fold them into the mixture.
- Refrigerate: Allow the spread to sit in the refrigerator for at least two hours, or overnight for best results. This allows the flavors to meld together.
In case other spreadable recipes interest you or you are looking to complement your meal, try pairing this with broccoli-cauliflower salad, which provides a fresh and crunchy side to your muffuletta-inspired dishes.
Health Benefits of Muffuletta Spread
While muffuletta spread is often seen as an indulgence, it contains several ingredients that offer nutritional benefits:
1. Healthy Fats
- Olives and olive oil are rich in monounsaturated fats, which show to reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering bad cholesterol (LDL) and raising good cholesterol (HDL).
2. Antioxidants
- Olives contain vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that protects your cells from oxidative stress and also reduces inflammation.
3. Low Carbohydrates
- The spread is naturally low in carbs, making it suitable for those following low-carb or ketogenic diets. By omitting the bread, you can enjoy a carb-free version of this spread.
Serving Suggestions for Muffuletta Spread
It is incredibly versatile and you can serve it in a variety of ways:
- On Sandwiches: Of course, the classic muffuletta sandwich is the most popular use for this spread, layered with salami, ham, and provolone cheese.
- As an Appetizer: Spread it on crostini or serve it with crackers for a Mediterranean-inspired appetizer.
- On a Charcuterie Board: Pair the spread with an assortment of cheeses, meats, and also fruits for an elevated charcuterie board.
- On Salads: Spoon the spread over mixed greens or pasta salad for a surely instant upgrade to your salads.
For more ideas on how to use versatile spreads, you can explore this guide to what you can do with sourdough discard, another way to utilize ingredients in various dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is muffuletta spread made of?
This spread is made from a combination of olives, olive oil, capers, shallots, garlic, oregano in addition to red wine vinegar, with optional additions like salami and ham for extra flavor.
Can I make muffuletta spread vegan?
Yes! By omitting the meats, you can indeed create a vegan version of muffuletta spread using just the olives, olive oil, and vegetables.
How long does muffuletta spread last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, this spread can last up to one month in the refrigerator.
Is muffuletta spread gluten-free?
The spread itself is gluten-free, but you will need to use gluten-free crackers or bread if you’re concerned about gluten in the serving method.
Muffuletta Spread vs. Tapenade
While muffuletta spread and tapenade are both olive-based, they differ in several key ways:
- Olives: Muffuletta spread typically includes both green and black olives, while tapenade usually only uses black olives, such as Kalamata.
- Additional Ingredients: Muffuletta spread incorporates additional ingredients like capers, meats, and even cream cheese in some variations, while tapenade often sticks to simpler ingredients like olives, capers, and anchovies.
- Texture and Use: Muffuletta spread is chunkier and typically used as a sandwich filling, whereas tapenade is smoother and more often used as a dip or topping.
Conclusion: A Versatile and Flavorful Spread
Last but not least, muffuletta spread is a delicious and versatile addition to any meal, whether used in its traditional sandwich form or served as part of an appetizer platter. The blend of olives, capers in addition to olive oil provides a Mediterranean flavor profile that pairs well with various dishes. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking to enhance a simple meal, this magical spread is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Finally, are you looking for more flavorful, healthy recipes? Check out this refreshing mint lemonade recipe to serve alongside your muffuletta spread for a complete Mediterranean-inspired experience.