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Toasted Italian Sandwich Recipe

Toasted Italian Sandwich Recipe

4.8 from 25 reviews

This Toasted Italian Sandwich combines layers of savory salami, ham, provolone cheese, roasted red peppers, and fresh spinach, all perfectly toasted between slices of Italian bread spread with flavorful pesto. It’s an easy-to-make, delicious sandwich ideal for a satisfying lunch or snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread

  • 2 slices of Italian bread

Meats and Cheese

  • 3 oz. sliced salami
  • 3 oz. sliced provolone cheese
  • 3 oz. sliced ham

Vegetables and Condiments

  • 1 oz. roasted red peppers
  • Fresh spinach leaves (optional), about a handful
  • 1 tablespoon pesto

Other

  • Olive oil (for brushing), about 1 tablespoon
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Your Pan: Heat a skillet over medium heat or preheat a panini press to medium-high temperature, preparing it for toasting your sandwich evenly.
  2. Assemble Ingredients: Lay one slice of Italian bread onto a clean surface to start building your sandwich.
  3. Spread Pesto: Evenly spread 1 tablespoon of pesto over the slice of bread to add rich, herby flavor as the base layer.
  4. Layer Meats: Place 3 ounces each of sliced salami and ham on top of the pesto, distributing them evenly for balanced flavor.
  5. Add Cheese: Lay 3 ounces of sliced provolone cheese over the meats, which will melt nicely during toasting.
  6. Add Veggies: Top with 1 ounce of roasted red peppers and a handful of fresh spinach leaves for freshness and a slight crunch.
  7. Season: Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper over the vegetables to enhance all the flavors.
  8. Top with Bread: Place the second slice of Italian bread on top to close your sandwich.
  9. Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush the outer sides of the sandwich with olive oil (about 1 tablespoon total) to help it toast to a golden brown and crispy texture.
  10. Toast Sandwich: If using a skillet, place the sandwich in the pan and press it down gently with a spatula. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. If using a panini press, close the lid and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until toasted and warm throughout.
  11. Serve: Remove the sandwich from the heat, cut it in half diagonally or as preferred, and serve warm for the best taste and texture.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian option, omit the salami and ham and add extra roasted vegetables.
  • Use gluten-free Italian bread to make the sandwich gluten-free.
  • Fresh spinach is optional but adds a nice touch of color and nutrition.
  • You can substitute provolone with mozzarella or another mild melting cheese if preferred.
  • Adjust toasting time based on your equipment and desired crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Toasted Italian sandwich, panini, salami sandwich, provolone sandwich, easy Italian lunch