If you’re craving a sandwich that bursts with flavor while feeling fresh and comforting, the Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Focaccia Turkey Sandwich Recipe is about to become your new go-to. This delightful creation combines the aromatic punch of sun-dried tomato pesto with tender turkey and crisp veggies, all hugged by soft, fragrant focaccia bread. It’s like a flavor party in every bite, perfect for lunch, a casual dinner, or impressing guests with minimal effort. Trust me, once you try this sandwich, it’s hard to settle for anything less exciting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you; each one plays an essential role in making this sandwich sing. From the soft focaccia bread that offers a light chew, to the vibrant sun-dried tomato pesto that delivers a rich, savory punch, every element contributes to the perfect balance of taste and texture.
- Focaccia bread (1 loaf): The foundation of the sandwich, this bread is soft with a slightly crispy crust that soaks up all the flavors beautifully.
- Deli turkey (12 ounces): Lean and tender, turkey adds a satisfying protein base without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Large tomato (1): Thinly sliced for freshness and juiciness, tomatoes brighten the sandwich with their natural acidity.
- Mixed greens (3 handfuls): A mix of crisp, peppery flavors that gives the sandwich a refreshing crunch and color.
- Red onion (1/4, thinly sliced): Adds a mild bite and a dash of sharpness that balances the richness of the pesto and mayo.
- Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Creamy and smooth, it helps keep the sandwich moist while rounding out the flavors.
- Sun-dried tomato pesto (6 ounces): The star ingredient providing an intense, tangy, and herby depth that’s completely irresistible.
- Provolone cheese (8 ounces, sliced): Melts slightly between the warm bread and turkey for a mild, mellow richness.
How to Make Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Focaccia Turkey Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Warm the Focaccia
Start by preheating your oven to 350º F, if you want that extra cozy touch. Place the focaccia on a baking sheet and warm it for 5 to 10 minutes. This step is optional, but warm focaccia feels like a gentle hug for the sandwich fillings, softening the bread just right without losing its delightful crust.
Step 2: Slice the Bread
Using a serrated knife, carefully slice the focaccia horizontally so you have a top and bottom piece for the sandwich. If the loaf feels large or tricky to cut, try going around the loaf in a circular motion to ensure a neat, even cut. This ensures every bite is balanced between bread and filling.
Step 3: Spread the Mayonnaise
Place the bottom half of the focaccia on your workspace and evenly spread the mayonnaise across the surface. This creamy layer acts like a flavor base and helps keep the sandwich moist, complementing the savory turkey perfectly.
Step 4: Layer the Sandwich Fillings
Onto the mayonnaise, arrange your deli turkey slices evenly. Follow with the provolone cheese, then layer on the thin tomato slices, red onion rings, and finally the mixed greens. This layered approach keeps the sandwich balanced and lets each flavor shine through in every bite.
Step 5: Add the Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto
Spread the sun-dried tomato pesto generously on the inside of the top focaccia half. This intense, tangy pesto is what truly elevates this sandwich from ordinary to exceptional. Once spread, place the top half over your stacked fillings.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Using a serrated knife again, gently cut the sandwich into 8 to 12 portions, depending on your preference. Now comes the best part — enjoying each delicious, juicy mouthful of your Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Focaccia Turkey Sandwich Recipe!
How to Serve Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Focaccia Turkey Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
To complement this sandwich, consider adding fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper on top before serving. These subtle touches add a fresh aroma and a bit of warmth that enhances the pesto’s herbal flavors.
Side Dishes
A crisp side salad with vinaigrette works beautifully alongside this sandwich, bringing more brightness to the meal. Alternatively, baked sweet potato fries or a bowl of tomato soup create a comforting, hearty pairing that’s especially satisfying on cooler days.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings or picnics, serve the sandwich open-faced on a board with bowls of extra sun-dried tomato pesto, mixed greens, and sliced tomatoes. Not only does this look visually stunning, but it allows everyone to customize their bites to their liking!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover sandwich portions tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. Keep them refrigerated, and they will stay fresh for up to two days, perfect for a quick weekday lunch.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t ideal for focaccia sandwiches because the bread tends to lose its texture upon thawing. However, you can freeze the turkey, provolone, and pesto separately for up to a month and assemble fresh sandwiches whenever you want.
Reheating
If you prefer your sandwich warm, pop the wrapped portion into a 350º F oven for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, which can make the focaccia soggy. This warming method revives the bread’s crispy texture while gently melting the cheese.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread for this sandwich?
Absolutely! While focaccia offers a unique flavor and texture, ciabatta or a sturdy sourdough loaf would also work well. Just make sure the bread is thick enough to hold all the fillings without falling apart.
Is sun-dried tomato pesto spicy?
Most sun-dried tomato pestos are not spicy but rather tangy and savory with herbal notes. However, some brands might add chili or pepper flakes, so always check the label if you’re sensitive to spice.
Can I substitute the provolone cheese?
Definitely! Mozzarella, Swiss, or even a sharp cheddar can be delicious alternatives. Each will change the flavor profile slightly but keep things flavorful and gooey.
How can I make this sandwich vegetarian?
Simply skip the turkey and add roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or portobello mushrooms. The sun-dried tomato pesto and provolone add plenty of flavor to keep the sandwich hearty and satisfying.
What is the best way to cut focaccia for sandwiches?
The key is using a serrated knife and slicing horizontally to create a clean top and bottom half. If your focaccia is thick, take your time to cut slowly in a circular motion to avoid crumbling the bread.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting and exciting about the Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Focaccia Turkey Sandwich Recipe that I can’t help but recommend it to everyone. It’s quick to pull together, packed with flavor layers, and perfect for any time you want a satisfying meal without the fuss. Take a little time to make this sandwich your own—you’ll quickly see why it’s a beloved favorite in my kitchen and many others.
