Ultimate Gourmet Ciabatta Sandwich Recipe
This Ultimate Gourmet Ciabatta Sandwich combines layers of flavorful deli meats, melted Monterey Jack cheese, fresh tomato, and a zesty coleslaw topping on a perfectly toasted ciabatta bread base spread with a savory pesto butter mixture. The sandwich is toasted to golden perfection in an air fryer or oven, offering a delightful mix of textures and rich tastes in every bite, perfect for a gourmet lunch or casual dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 1 large sandwich 1x
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
Scale
Bread
- 2 halves ciabatta slices
Deli Meats
- 100 g cooked ham
- 100 g spicy salami
- 100 g pancetta
Cheese
- 7 slices Monterey Jack cheese
Vegetables
- ½ tomato, sliced
Seasoning and Condiments
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
Coleslaw Mixture
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 2 tablespoons Caesar dressing (homemade or store-bought)
Spread for Bread
- 2 tablespoons pesto
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Slice the ciabatta loaf horizontally into two halves to create the base and top of your sandwich.
- Make the Pesto Butter Spread: In a bowl, mix the softened butter with pesto and chopped parsley until well combined. Generously spread this mixture on the cut sides of both ciabatta halves.
- Toast the Bread: Place the prepared ciabatta halves in an air fryer or oven using the broil setting. Toast until the bread becomes golden and crisp, enhancing flavor and texture.
- Layer the Deli Meats: On one toasted half, layer the cooked ham, spicy salami, and pancetta evenly to build the sandwich’s savory base.
- Add Tomato and Seasoning: Arrange fresh tomato slices over the meats. Sprinkle a pinch of kosher salt to deepen the flavor profile of the veggies and meats.
- Add Cheese Slices: Lay the Monterey Jack cheese slices over the layered ingredients. Return this open sandwich to the air fryer or oven, just long enough for the cheese to melt perfectly.
- Season and Add Coleslaw: Once the cheese has melted, sprinkle black pepper over the top. Spoon a generous amount of the coleslaw mixture (shredded cabbage tossed with Caesar dressing) onto the cheesy layer.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Close the sandwich by placing the other toasted ciabatta half on top. Press gently to hold all fillings in place.
- Serve: Optionally drizzle balsamic glaze over the sandwich or serve on the side for an additional flavor boost. Slice and enjoy your ultimate gourmet ciabatta sandwich fresh and warm.
Notes
- Use fresh pesto and high-quality butter for the best flavor in the bread spread.
- Adjust the amount of Caesar dressing in the coleslaw to your taste preference, making it creamier or lighter.
- The sandwich can be made using a conventional oven if no air fryer is available; broil carefully to avoid burning.
- Try substituting Monterey Jack with mozzarella or provolone for a different melty cheese experience.
- For a spicier kick, add a few slices of jalapeño or a drizzle of hot sauce inside the sandwich.
- Serve immediately after assembling to enjoy the contrast of warm melted cheese and crisp toasted bread.
Keywords: ciabatta sandwich, gourmet sandwich, deli meats sandwich, melted cheese sandwich, air fryer sandwich, pesto butter spread, coleslaw sandwich topping
