This Easy Italian Sandwich is a tasty treat! With layers of fresh meats, cheeses, and veggies, it’s both simple and satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to customize to your taste!
I love making these sandwiches for lunch. Just pile on your favorite ingredients and maybe add some spicy mayo for a kick. Perfect for a picnic or a cozy day at home! 🥪
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ciabatta roll: This bread has a lovely crust and soft inside, perfect for holding all the fillings. If you can’t find ciabatta, you can use focaccia or even a baguette for a delicious twist!
Basil pesto: It’s essential for adding that herby richness. If you’re short on time, store-bought pesto works great! You can even make it with spinach or arugula if you want a different flavor.
Fresh mozzarella: The creaminess of mozzarella is key here. If you can’t find it, try using provolone or gouda for a slightly different taste, but stick with softer cheese for the same meltiness.
Prosciutto: This salty Italian ham adds depth to the sandwich. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey bacon or smoked salmon can work, just keep in mind the flavor will change a bit!
Roasted chicken or turkey: These meats keep the sandwich hearty. Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect here. You can also use cooked ham or even a plant-based alternative for a meat-free version!
How Do I Get My Sandwich Crispy on the Outside and Melted Inside?
Grilling sandwiches can be tricky, but with the right technique, you’ll achieve that perfect crisp! The key is managing your heat and pressure while cooking.
- Preheat your grill pan on medium heat. A hot pan is essential for crispy bread.
- Brush olive oil on the outside; it helps the bread brown beautifully. You can also use butter for a richer flavor!
- When the sandwich is in the pan, press it down slightly with a spatula. This ensures even cooking and helps the cheese melt!
- Keep an eye on it; about 3–5 minutes per side should do the trick. Flip gently to avoid a mess!
With these steps, your sandwich will be golden, crunchy, and cheesy—just like it should be.
Stanley Tucci’s Easy Italian Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ciabatta roll (or Italian sandwich bread), split in half
- 2 tablespoons basil pesto
- 3–4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- 4 slices thinly sliced prosciutto
- 4 slices thinly sliced turkey or roasted chicken breast
- Olive oil, for brushing
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious Italian sandwich takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 6-10 minutes to grill, making the total time around 20 minutes. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. This step will help the bread get that lovely crispiness when you grill the sandwich.
2. Spread the Pesto:
Take the ciabatta roll and spread 1 tablespoon of basil pesto evenly on each half. Don’t be shy; the pesto adds that wonderful herby flavor!
3. Layer the Cheese:
Now, lay down 3–4 slices of fresh mozzarella cheese on the bottom half of the bread. Make sure to cover it well so every bite is cheesy!
4. Add the Prosciutto:
Next, layer 4 slices of thinly sliced prosciutto right on top of the mozzarella. The saltiness of the prosciutto perfectly complements the creamy cheese.
5. Add the Chicken:
Now it’s time to add your turkey or roasted chicken slices over the prosciutto. This will make the sandwich heartier and even more delightful.
6. Season it Up:
Sprinkle a touch of freshly ground black pepper on top for a bit of seasoning. It will enhance all the wonderful flavors!
7. Assemble the Sandwich:
Place the top half of the ciabatta roll over your layered fillings, creating a complete sandwich. Press down gently to help everything stick together.
8. Brush with Olive Oil:
Before grilling, lightly brush the outside of the sandwich with olive oil. It helps achieve that nice golden color and crispy texture.
9. Grill to Perfection:
Carefully place the sandwich in your preheated pan. Using a spatula, press down slightly. Grill for about 3–5 minutes on each side, or until the bread turns golden brown and the cheese is melted.
10. Slice and Serve:
Once it’s grilled to your liking, remove the sandwich from heat. Slice it in half and serve immediately. Enjoy every delicious bite!
This sandwich combines the creaminess of fresh mozzarella, the aromatic punch of pesto, and the savory goodness of prosciutto and turkey, all enclosed in deliciously toasted bread. It’s a true Italian delight that Stanley Tucci would be proud of!
FAQ for Stanley Tucci’s Easy Italian Sandwich
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While ciabatta is perfect for this sandwich, you can also use focaccia, baguette, or even whole grain bread. Just make sure whatever you choose is sturdy enough to hold the fillings!
Can I Make This Sandwich Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply leave out the prosciutto and turkey or chicken. You can add more veggies like roasted peppers, sliced tomatoes, or even some grilled eggplant for added flavor and texture!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sandwich in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop it in a skillet over low heat to get the bread crispy again while warming up the filling!
What Can I Serve With This Sandwich?
This sandwich pairs wonderfully with a side salad, homemade potato chips, or a bowl of soup. It’s a complete meal on its own but feels even more special with a side dish!
