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
- 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.
- Apply a delicate layer of pesto sauce on the non-oiled side of two bread slices, creating a vibrant green base for the sandwich.
- Arrange sliced turkey evenly across the pesto-covered bread, ensuring complete coverage for consistent taste in every bite.
- Layer mozzarella cheese slices directly onto the turkey, allowing the cheese to melt and bind the ingredients together during grilling.
- Add fresh tomato and creamy avocado slices over the cheese, introducing additional texture and moisture to the sandwich.
- Sprinkle a handful of crisp spinach or peppery arugula leaves to provide a fresh, green component and slight crunch.
- Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the non-oiled side of the remaining bread slices for extra richness and tang.
- Carefully place the mayonnaise-coated bread slices facing down onto the prepared fillings, completing the sandwich assembly.
- Preheat a skillet or panini press to medium heat, ensuring an even cooking surface around 350°F.
- Grill the sandwich for 3-4 minutes per side, rotating to achieve a golden-brown exterior and completely melted cheese.
- Remove the sandwich from heat, allowing it to rest for one minute to settle the ingredients.
- 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