Description
Delectable sun-dried tomato pesto turkey sandwich merges Mediterranean flavors with classic American comfort. Crisp layers of savory turkey, tangy pesto, and robust tomatoes create a gourmet lunch experience you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 6 ounces (170 grams) sliced turkey breast (deli or leftover roasted turkey)
- 4 slices provolone, mozzarella, or Swiss cheese
Bread and Greens:
- 4 slices sourdough, ciabatta, or whole-grain bread
- ½ cup baby spinach or arugula
Pesto and Seasoning:
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained)
- ¼ cup basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tablespoon pine nuts or walnuts (optional, for extra depth)
- 1 clove garlic
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil (for toasting the bread)
- ½ teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt
- Black pepper
Instructions
- Create a vibrant sun-dried tomato pesto by combining sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, parmesan cheese, toasted pine nuts, minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, and a splash of lemon juice in a food processor. Pulse until the mixture reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Taste the pesto and enhance with a pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust seasonings to achieve a balanced, zesty flavor profile.
- Select two slices of artisan bread and generously spread the homemade pesto across each interior surface, ensuring complete coverage from edge to edge.
- Layer tender slices of roasted turkey onto one bread slice, creating an even, slightly overlapping arrangement for maximum coverage.
- Add a generous handful of crisp baby spinach or peppery arugula leaves atop the turkey, allowing some green to peek out from underneath.
- Carefully place your preferred cheese variety – whether sharp provolone, creamy mozzarella, or tangy Swiss – directly on the greens.
- Gently press the second pesto-coated bread slice on top, creating a harmonious sandwich stack.
- For optimal texture, lightly toast the sandwich in a panini press or skillet until the bread turns golden and crisp, and the cheese begins to melt.
- Optional: Elevate the sandwich’s complexity by drizzling a balsamic glaze over the top for an extra layer of sweet-tangy sophistication.
- Slice diagonally and serve immediately alongside crisp kettle chips, a light mixed green salad, or a comforting bowl of seasonal soup.
Notes
- Transform basic pesto by swapping traditional pine nuts with more affordable alternatives like sunflower seeds or almonds for budget-friendly meal prep.
- Customize the sandwich for dietary needs by using gluten-free bread, dairy-free cheese, or plant-based turkey substitute for vegetarian/vegan options.
- Enhance meal prep efficiency by preparing extra pesto in advance and storing in sealed containers for up to one week in the refrigerator, which saves time during busy weekdays.
- Elevate sandwich texture by lightly toasting bread before assembling, ensuring a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft interior for maximum flavor and enjoyment.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Snacks
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg