This yummy Italian sandwich is perfect for any meal! With layers of fresh ingredients and tasty meats, it’s a delight for your taste buds. You can whip it up quickly for lunch or dinner!
I love how easy it is to customize with my favorite veggies and spreads. Plus, it’s super satisfying—every bite is like a little party in my mouth! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ciabatta Roll: This is my go-to bread for its crispy crust and airy inside. You can swap it for any Italian bread like focaccia or a baguette if you prefer something different.
Pesto Sauce: Fresh basil pesto adds bright flavor, but you can use store-bought or swap it for sun-dried tomato spread if you’re not a fan of basil.
Provolone Cheese: Provolone melts beautifully. If you can’t find it, try mozzarella or even cheddar for a milder taste.
Deli Meats: Turkey and prosciutto work great together, but feel free to switch them out with salami or ham for a different flavor profile.
Mayonnaise: This is optional, but it adds creaminess. If you want to keep it healthier, try avocado or Greek yogurt instead!
How Do I Toast the Sandwich for Perfect Melting?
Getting that golden, crispy outside with oozy melted cheese inside is key! Here’s how to do it:
- Use a medium heat. Too high and the bread burns while the inside stays cold.
- Use enough olive oil or butter for a nice coating, which helps with browning.
- Press down gently while toasting. This helps all ingredients meld together.
- Flip carefully to avoid spilling out components. Use a spatula and be patient—let it toast well on both sides!
This technique really makes a difference in achieving a sandwich that’s crispy on the outside and warm and melty inside. Enjoy all those delicious flavors!
Stanley Tucci’s Easy Italian Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 1 ciabatta roll or Italian sandwich loaf
- 2 tablespoons pesto sauce
- 2 slices provolone cheese
- 3 slices deli turkey
- 3 slices deli prosciutto
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil or butter, for toasting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful sandwich takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend a few minutes gathering ingredients and putting the sandwich together, followed by a quick toast in the skillet. It’s a fast and easy option for lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Bread:
Start by slicing the ciabatta roll in half horizontally. Make sure not to cut all the way through, so it stays connected on one side. This will help hold all the delicious fillings inside!
2. Adding the Pesto:
Spread the pesto sauce evenly on both halves of the bread. This flavorful base will give your sandwich that lovely Italian flair!
3. Layering the Ingredients:
Now for the fun part! Place the provolone cheese on the bottom half of the roll. Then, layer the turkey slices over the cheese followed by the prosciutto slices on top of the turkey. If you like, you can spread mayonnaise on the top half of the bread at this stage.
4. Assembling the Sandwich:
Close the sandwich and press down gently. This helps all those wonderful layers stick together and makes it easier to toast!
5. Toasting the Sandwich:
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil or butter. Once it’s hot, place your sandwich in the skillet. Toast it while pressing down gently with a spatula for about 3-4 minutes on one side until it’s golden brown.
6. Flipping for Perfection:
Carefully flip the sandwich to the other side and toast for another 3-4 minutes, pressing down again. You want the cheese to be melted and the bread to be nicely browned!
7. Finishing Touches:
Once perfectly toasted, remove the sandwich from the skillet. Slice it in half, sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper, and serve immediately. Enjoy each tasty bite!
This sandwich brings together creamy pesto, savory meats, and melted cheese, all tucked inside a crusty roll. It’s sure to delight your taste buds—enjoy!
FAQ About Stanley Tucci’s Easy Italian Sandwich
Can I Use Different Bread for This Sandwich?
Absolutely! While ciabatta is ideal for its texture, you can substitute it with focaccia, baguette, or even a hearty sourdough if you prefer. Just make sure whatever bread you choose can hold up to the fillings!
What Can I Substitute for Pesto?
If you’re not a fan of pesto, you can use sun-dried tomato spread or even hummus for a unique flavor. Creamy avocado spread also works wonderfully for a fresh twist!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftover sandwich halves, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, toast in a skillet or pan until warmed through and the cheese is melty again.
Can I Make This Sandwich Vegetarian?
Definitely! You can skip the turkey and prosciutto and add more veggies instead. Roasted red peppers, arugula, or grilled zucchini make excellent additions to keep it satisfying and flavorful!
