Meatless Muffaletta

During my trip to New Orleans this winter, I learned about a fabulous sandwich known as the "Muffaletta."

Shortly after learning about this so-called fabulous sandwich, I discovered that it would be nearly impossible for me to find a marvelously meatless version. Whereas most classic sammies have a vegetarian sister sandwich (Beanball Subs, anyone?), the Muffaletta boasts salami, pepperoni, capicola, and ham as its star ingredients.

With a filling that dangerously meaty, I quickly learned that a meatless muffaletta would look more like a grilled cheese.

But wait! The other hallmark of a Muffaletta is seasoned, marinated olive salad. I can make this work, right?

I am a lover of all-things-sandwich, and I refuse to be defeated by this New Orleans sammie that claims to have no meat-free counterparts. I will make this work.

Adam and I created a Meatless Muffaletta tonight, inspired by the pages of this month's Vegetarian Times. Our sandwiches feature a homemade Spinach-Garlic Hummus slathered on fresh bread, and topped with marinated Artichoke-Olive-Roasted Red Pepper salad.

Holy Moly.

I may have to re-vist New Orleans....and show that meat-happy Muff who's boss.

Meatless Muffaletta

Good news! If you're looking for a vegan Muffaletta, this sandwich is for you. Just omit the cheese and you won't even miss it. Also, If you're feeling industrious, make the Artichoke-Olive-Red Pepper salad from scratch (I wasn't feeling so industrious tonight...hence the pre-made salad).

Hummus Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 oz.) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
• 1 TBSP lemon juice
• 1 - 1/2 tsp. cumin
• 1 tsp. coriander
• 2 TBSP olive oil (or more, to taste)
• 1 cup (packed) chopped spinach leaves

Sandwich Ingredients:

• Homemade bread or sandwich buns
• Hummus
• Marinated Artichoke-Olive-Roasted Red Pepper salad (I cheated and purchased pre-made at the store!)
• Optional--Swiss cheese for topping (I went without; my cheese-head hubby loaded it on)

Directions:

1) To prepare the hummus, blend chickpeas in a food processor until thoroughly processed. Add remaining ingredients and process until smooth. Add more olive oil, as needed to reach your desired consistency.

2) To assemble sandwich: Toast bread or bun. Slather with hummus, top with marinated salad.