Turkey Pesto Sandwich Recipe

Easy Turkey Pesto Sandwich Recipe That Packs Fresh Flavor

Crafting a delectable turkey pesto sandwich brings pure culinary joy to lunch routines.

Layers of succulent meat nestled between fresh bread create an irresistible midday meal.

Fragrant basil-infused pesto adds vibrant green complexity to each delightful bite.

Crisp ingredients complement the tender sliced turkey with remarkable texture contrasts.

Mediterranean-inspired flavors dance across your palate, promising satisfaction in every mouthful.

Simple yet sophisticated, this sandwich emerges as a quick gourmet solution for hungry souls.

Savor each incredible combination and let your taste buds celebrate this effortless culinary adventure.

What Makes Turkey Pesto Sandwich So Good

  • Transform ordinary turkey into a restaurant-worthy sandwich with simple, fresh ingredients that elevate your lunch game.
  • Easily swap ingredients to match personal tastes or dietary needs without compromising the delicious flavor profile.
  • Perfect for casual gatherings, picnics, or a satisfying meal that appeals to both kids and adults with its layered, melty goodness.
  • Pack in extra nutrients with fresh spinach, creamy avocado, and lean turkey while enjoying a mouthwatering combination of textures and tastes.

Turkey Pesto Sandwich Ingredients

Bread:
  • Bread Slices: Soft base for building the sandwich.
Sandwich Filling Proteins:
  • Turkey Slices: Lean protein for the sandwich.
  • Mozzarella Cheese Slices: Creamy and melty cheese layer.
Sandwich Vegetables and Spreads:
  • Pesto Sauce, Mayonnaise: Flavorful and creamy condiments.
  • Tomato Slices, Avocado Slices: Fresh and juicy vegetable layers.
  • Spinach, Arugula: Green leafy vegetables for added nutrition.
Cooking Ingredients:
  • Olive Oil, Butter: For toasting and adding richness to bread.

How to Prepare Turkey Pesto Sandwich

Step 1: Prepare Bread Base

Grab your favorite bread slices.

Gently brush one side of each slice with olive oil or spread creamy butter across the surface.

This will help create a golden, crispy exterior when grilled.

Step 2: Layer Delicious Ingredients

Spread a generous layer of zesty pesto on the non-oiled side of two bread slices.

Then stack your ingredients in this order:
  • Sliced turkey
  • Mozzarella cheese
  • Tomato slices
  • Creamy avocado
  • Fresh spinach or peppery arugula

Spread a thin layer of creamy mayonnaise on the non-oiled side of the remaining bread slices.

Place these slices mayonnaise-side down to complete the sandwich.

Step 3: Grill to Perfection

Warm up a skillet or panini press over medium heat.

Carefully place your assembled sandwiches into the pan.

Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until the bread turns a beautiful golden brown and the cheese melts into gooey deliciousness.

If using a panini press, follow the device’s specific instructions for optimal pressing.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

Remove the sandwiches from heat and let them rest for a minute.

Slice diagonally to create two perfect halves that showcase all the delicious layers inside.

Step 5: Enjoy Your Creation

Serve the sandwiches while warm.

Pair with crispy chips, a fresh salad, or tangy pickles for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy.

Turkey Pesto Sandwich Tips

  • Brush olive oil or butter on bread for a rich, crispy texture that elevates the entire sandwich experience.
  • Use room temperature mozzarella to ensure smooth, even melting and prevent cold cheese centers.
  • Stack ingredients strategically – pesto first, then turkey, cheese, veggies – for balanced flavors in every bite.
  • Use a panini press for perfect grill marks and consistent heating if you have one available.
  • Replace turkey with grilled portobello mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian alternative that maintains the sandwich's hearty profile.

How to Store Turkey Pesto Sandwich Properly

  • Store leftover turkey pesto sandwich in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Wrap each sandwich separately in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.
  • Place sandwich on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 30-45 seconds, checking halfway to ensure even warming. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent bread from becoming tough.
  • Warm a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Gently place sandwich in pan and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until cheese melts and bread crisps up. Use low heat to prevent burning.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Wrap sandwich in aluminum foil to retain moisture. Bake for 10-12 minutes until heated through. Unwrap for the last 2 minutes to restore bread's crispiness.

Turkey Pesto Sandwich Side Options

Perfect Flavor Companions: Fresh and Zesty Pairings

  • Crisp White Wine Refresh: Pair this rich, herbaceous sandwich with a chilled sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio to cut through the creamy cheese and complement the pesto's bright basil notes.
  • Citrus Salad Sidekick: Craft a light lemon-dressed mixed green salad with cucumber and herbs to balance the sandwich's richness and add a refreshing counterpoint to the warm, melted cheese.
  • Tangy Pickle Crunch: Serve cold, crisp dill pickle spears or quick-pickled vegetables alongside the sandwich to provide a sharp, acidic contrast that enhances the turkey and pesto flavors.
  • Summer Fruit Accompaniment: Add a small side of fresh seasonal berries or sliced watermelon to introduce a sweet, juicy element that cleanses the palate between bites of the hearty sandwich.

Sandwich Style Twists for Turkey Pesto

  • Gluten-Free Version: Replace bread with gluten-free sourdough or cauliflower flatbread. Use certified gluten-free pesto and ensure all ingredients meet gluten-free standards.
  • Vegan Alternative: Swap turkey with grilled tofu or tempeh slices. Use dairy-free mozzarella and plant-based pesto made from nutritional yeast and basil. Replace mayonnaise with vegan aioli or cashew cream.
  • Low-Carb Option: Substitute bread with large lettuce leaves or thin cucumber slices. Layer ingredients inside as a wrap or open-faced sandwich. Use herb-infused cream cheese instead of traditional pesto for added flavor.
  • Mediterranean Remix: Include roasted red peppers, kalamata olives, and swap mozzarella with feta cheese. Use whole wheat pita bread and add a drizzle of olive oil for extra Mediterranean flair.

FAQs

  • What type of bread works best for this sandwich?

Crusty sourdough or ciabatta bread are ideal because they hold up well when grilled and provide a nice crispy texture with a sturdy base for the fillings.

  • Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?

Yes, simply replace the turkey with grilled portobello mushrooms or roasted vegetable slices to maintain a similar protein and flavor profile.

  • How can I prevent my sandwich from becoming soggy?

Pat tomato and avocado slices dry before adding them to the sandwich, and spread pesto and mayonnaise sparingly to reduce moisture that could make the bread soggy.

  • Is it necessary to use a panini press?

No, a regular skillet works perfectly fine. Just use a spatula to press down gently on the sandwich while cooking to achieve a similar pressed effect and golden-brown crust.

Print
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Turkey Pesto Sandwich Recipe

Turkey Pesto Sandwich Recipe


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4.5 from 26 reviews

  • Total Time: 18 minutes
  • Yield: 2 1x

Description

Savor Mediterranean flavors with this irresistible turkey pesto sandwich, where tender slices of roasted turkey mingle with zesty basil pesto. Crisp artisan bread and fresh ingredients create a quick, satisfying meal perfect for lunch or casual dining.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1/2 pound (226 grams) sliced turkey breast
  • 4 slices mozzarella cheese

Bread and Spreads:

  • 4 slices bread (sourdough, ciabatta, or whole grain)
  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) pesto sauce
  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) mayonnaise (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) olive oil or softened butter

Fresh Ingredients:

  • 1 ripe tomato (sliced)
  • 1/2 avocado (sliced)
  • Handful of fresh spinach or arugula

Instructions

  1. Prepare bread surfaces by lightly coating one side of each slice with olive oil or softened butter to enhance flavor and create a crispy exterior.
  2. Apply a delicate layer of pesto sauce on the non-oiled side of two bread slices, creating a vibrant green base for the sandwich.
  3. Arrange sliced turkey evenly across the pesto-covered bread, ensuring complete coverage for consistent taste in every bite.
  4. Layer mozzarella cheese slices directly onto the turkey, allowing the cheese to melt and bind the ingredients together during grilling.
  5. Add fresh tomato and creamy avocado slices over the cheese, introducing additional texture and moisture to the sandwich.
  6. Sprinkle a handful of crisp spinach or peppery arugula leaves to provide a fresh, green component and slight crunch.
  7. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the non-oiled side of the remaining bread slices for extra richness and tang.
  8. Carefully place the mayonnaise-coated bread slices facing down onto the prepared fillings, completing the sandwich assembly.
  9. Preheat a skillet or panini press to medium heat, ensuring an even cooking surface around 350°F.
  10. Grill the sandwich for 3-4 minutes per side, rotating to achieve a golden-brown exterior and completely melted cheese.
  11. Remove the sandwich from heat, allowing it to rest for one minute to settle the ingredients.
  12. Slice diagonally and serve immediately with accompaniments like chips, mixed salad, or tangy pickles.

Notes

  • Choose a sturdy artisan bread like sourdough or ciabatta that can hold up to grilling without falling apart or becoming soggy.
  • Let cheese sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before assembling to ensure smoother, more even melting during grilling.
  • Use homemade or high-quality store-bought pesto for a more vibrant, fresh flavor that elevates the entire sandwich experience.
  • Swap turkey with grilled chicken, use gluten-free bread for celiac diets, or replace cheese with vegan alternatives for plant-based preferences.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Snacks
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2
  • Calories: 570
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 50 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Protein: 34 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
Olivia Bennett

Olivia Bennett

Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

  • Showcasing ingredients in plant-forward vegetarian dishes.
  • Creating adaptable weeklong menu templates centered on seasonal produce.

Education

Schoolcraft College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Associate Degree
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, menu planning, and food safety.

With an Associate Degree in Culinary Arts from Schoolcraft College and a natural knack for teaching, Olivia Bennett’s all about making home cooking feel possible, even on your busiest day.
Her thing? Recipes that are budget-friendly, season-forward, and full of Southern warmth. Whether it’s a roasted veggie bowl or a five-ingredient skillet bake, Olivia makes sure it’s simple, satisfying, and something you’ll want to make again tomorrow.
When she’s not shooting step-by-step videos or testing spice blends, she’s out foraging, flipping through old cookbooks, or throwing laid-back dinner parties with a BYO-mason-jar theme.

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