Craving a lunchtime masterpiece? Imagine sinking your teeth into a cloud of soft, olive-oil-soaked focaccia, bursting with vibrant Mediterranean flavors. Get ready for an Italian Focaccia Sandwich that’s about to become your new obsession! This isn’t just a sandwich; it’s an experience. We’re talking about layers of fresh, flavorful ingredients nestled between perfectly baked focaccia bread, promising a taste of Italy with every bite.
- Effortlessly create a gourmet sandwich with minimal cooking skills and readily available ingredients.
- Experience a delightful combination of savory, tangy, and herbaceous notes in every mouthful.
- The vibrant colors and textures of the ingredients create a visually appealing sandwich.
- Perfect for lunch, picnics, or a light dinner, this sandwich is incredibly versatile.
Ingredients for Italian Focaccia Sandwich
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Focaccia BreadLook for a soft, airy focaccia with a good olive oil flavor. You can find it at most bakeries or make your own!
- Chicken BreastGrilled or roasted, thinly sliced. You can also use deli-style chicken for convenience.
- Fresh MozzarellaAdds a creamy, milky flavor and delightful texture. Slice it thinly so it melts easily.
- Roasted Red PeppersAdds a touch of sweetness and smoky flavor. You can roast your own or buy them jarred.
- ArugulaProvides a peppery bite and adds freshness. Baby spinach is a good substitute if you prefer a milder flavor.
- PestoUse your favorite store-bought or homemade pesto. Basil pesto is classic, but sun-dried tomato pesto would also be delicious.
- Balsamic GlazeAdds a touch of sweetness and tanginess that complements the other flavors.
- Olive OilFor drizzling and adding richness. Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Italian Focaccia Sandwich
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish: Step 1: Prepare the Focaccia Slice the focaccia bread horizontally, creating a top and bottom half. Drizzle both halves with olive oil. Step 2: Layer the Ingredients Spread pesto on both halves of the focaccia bread. On the bottom half, layer the sliced chicken, fresh mozzarella, and roasted red peppers. Step 3: Add the Greens Top with a generous handful of arugula. Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich Place the top half of the focaccia bread over the arugula. Step 5: Drizzle and Serve Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top of the sandwich. Slice and serve immediately. This Italian Focaccia Sandwich is fantastic on its own or with a side salad.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To ensure a symphony of flavors in your Italian Focaccia Sandwich, begin by searing the chicken or beef to lock in its juices. While it rests, prepare the vibrant pesto and assemble your ingredients. Finally, gently toast the focaccia with the fillings for a warm, delightful experience.
Add Your Touch
Unleash your culinary creativity with ingredient swaps! Try sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweetness or pepperoncini for a zesty kick. Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or fresh mozzarella, and consider adding roasted vegetables like zucchini or eggplant for a Mediterranean flair.
Storing & Reheating
To keep your Italian Focaccia Sandwich at its best, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and the focaccia is crisp.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken or beef; this will ensure even browning and better flavor.
- Toasting the focaccia before adding the fillings helps to prevent it from becoming soggy, creating a more satisfying bite.
- Letting the seared chicken or beef rest before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful sandwich.
My first attempt at making this sandwich was for a picnic. The focaccia was a bit too oily, but everyone devoured it anyway, proving that even a slightly imperfect Italian Focaccia Sandwich is still incredibly delicious!
Conclusion for Italian Focaccia Sandwich
So there you have it – the magnificent Italian focaccia sandwich, a culinary masterpiece perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re picnicking, partying, or simply craving a flavor-packed lunch, this sandwich delivers. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your fillings, experiment with different cheeses and herbs, and make it your own. With these tips and tricks, you’re now equipped to create a truly unforgettable Italian focaccia sandwich. Enjoy!
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Italian Focaccia Sandwich
Fluffy focaccia meets salty bresaola, creamy mozzarella, & vibrant pesto! This Italian sandwich is flavor-packed. Get the recipe & nutrition info!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Focaccia Bread: 1 loaf (approximately 12 inches)
- Bresaola: 4 ounces, thinly sliced
- Fresh Mozzarella: 4 ounces, sliced
- Pesto: 2 tablespoons
- Roasted Red Peppers: 1/2 cup, sliced
- Arugula: 1 cup, lightly packed
- Balsamic Glaze: 1 tablespoon
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
Instructions
- Step 1: Slice the focaccia loaf horizontally to create a top and bottom half. Lightly brush the inside of both halves with olive oil.
- Step 2: Spread pesto evenly over the bottom half of the focaccia bread.
- Step 3: Layer the turkey prosciutto over the pesto, followed by the sliced fresh mozzarella and roasted red peppers.
- Step 4: Add the arugula on top of the roasted red peppers.
- Step 5: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the arugula.
- Step 6: Place the top half of the focaccia bread over the fillings. Gently press down to secure the sandwich. Slice and serve immediately.
Notes
- Wrap leftover sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, preventing the bread from drying out.
- To revive a refrigerated sandwich, warm it in a panini press or skillet for a few minutes until the mozzarella is slightly melted and the bread is crisp.
- Serve your focaccia sandwich with a side of marinated olives or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Don't overcrowd the sandwich; less is more to allow each flavor to shine and prevent it from becoming too messy to eat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
FAQs
Can I make Italian focaccia sandwich ahead of time?
Absolutely! Making the Italian focaccia sandwich ahead of time is a fantastic idea, especially if you’re prepping for a party or a picnic. Assemble the sandwich, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or parchment paper, and store it in the refrigerator. Just keep in mind that the bread might soften a bit from the fillings, but the flavors will meld together beautifully. It’s the perfect way to save time and still impress your friends with a delicious and convenient meal. Just be sure to add any delicate ingredients like fresh lettuce right before serving to keep them crisp.
What are some good variations to Italian focaccia sandwich?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! Feel free to swap out the fillings based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Try adding grilled chicken or sliced turkey for protein. Roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes are great vegetarian additions. Different cheeses like provolone or mozzarella can also add a unique twist. And don’t forget the herbs! Fresh basil, oregano, or rosemary can elevate the flavors even more. Get creative and make it your own signature sandwich!
How do I keep my Italian focaccia sandwich from getting soggy?
Nobody likes a soggy sandwich! The key to keeping your Italian focaccia sandwich fresh is to manage the moisture. First, lightly toast the focaccia slices to create a barrier. Second, avoid using overly wet ingredients directly against the bread. If you’re using juicy tomatoes, for instance, pat them dry with a paper towel first. You can also spread a thin layer of pesto or olive oil on the bread to act as a moisture barrier. Lastly, wrap the sandwich tightly if you’re making it ahead to help prevent sogginess.
What’s the best way to store leftover focaccia bread?
Storing leftover focaccia properly will ensure it stays delicious for as long as possible. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container at room temperature. It’s best consumed within a day or two to maintain its soft texture. For longer storage, you can freeze it. Just wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it at room temperature and pop it in the oven for a few minutes to refresh its crust. This method helps keep the bread as tasty as the first day!
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