Are you tired of the same old boring sandwiches for lunch? Look no further! In this article, we’ll show you how to make a delicious turkey pesto sandwich that’s sure to become a new favorite. With its creamy pesto sauce, sliced turkey breast, and crunchy vegetables, this sandwich is a perfect combination of flavors and textures.
What is Pesto?
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk a little bit about pesto. Pesto is a classic Italian sauce made from basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. It’s traditionally used as a pasta sauce, but it’s also delicious as a dip or a sandwich spread. In this recipe, we’ll be using pesto as the main sauce for our turkey sandwich.
Why Use Pesto in a Sandwich?
So why use pesto in a sandwich? For one, it adds a rich and creamy element to the sandwich that complements the sliced turkey perfectly. It also adds a ton of flavor, with the basil and garlic giving the sandwich a fresh and savory taste. Plus, pesto is a great way to add some extra nutrients to your sandwich, with the basil providing a boost of antioxidants and the garlic providing antibacterial properties.
Ingredients Needed
Now that we’ve talked about pesto, let’s move on to the ingredients needed for our turkey pesto sandwich. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or Focaccia work well)
- 4 oz sliced turkey breast
- 1/4 cup of pesto sauce
- 1 cup of mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
- 1 cup of sliced cucumber
- 1 cup of sliced bell peppers
- 1/2 cup of sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Tips for Choosing the Right Bread
When it comes to choosing the right bread for your turkey pesto sandwich, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you want a bread that’s sturdy enough to hold up to the filling, but not so dense that it overpowers the other ingredients. Ciabatta or Focaccia bread work well for this recipe, as they have a light and airy texture that pairs perfectly with the pesto and turkey.
Other Bread Options
If you don’t have Ciabatta or Focaccia bread on hand, there are a few other options you can try. Here are a couple of alternatives:
- Whole wheat bread: This is a great option if you’re looking for a healthier bread choice. Just be aware that whole wheat bread can be a bit denser than Ciabatta or Focaccia.
- Baguette: This is a good option if you want a bread that’s a bit crisper on the outside and softer on the inside.
Instructions for Making the Turkey Pesto Sandwich
Now that we’ve talked about the ingredients and bread options, let’s move on to the instructions for making the turkey pesto sandwich. Here’s what you need to do:
Step 1: Prepare the Pesto Sauce
The first step in making the turkey pesto sandwich is to prepare the pesto sauce. If you’re using store-bought pesto, you can skip this step. But if you’re making your own pesto from scratch, here’s what you need to do:
- In a food processor or blender, combine 1 cup of fresh basil leaves, 1/3 cup of pine nuts, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup of olive oil, and 2 cloves of garlic.
- Process the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Season the pesto with salt and pepper to taste.
Tips for Making Pesto from Scratch
Making pesto from scratch can be a bit tricky, but with a few tips and tricks, you can get it just right. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Use fresh basil leaves: Fresh basil is essential for making good pesto. If you’re using dried basil, the pesto will be bland and flavorless.
- Don’t overprocess the mixture: It’s easy to overprocess the pesto mixture, which can make it too smooth and lose its texture. Stop processing the mixture when it’s still a bit chunky.
- Add the garlic last: Garlic can be overpowering in pesto, so it’s best to add it last. This way, you can taste the pesto as you go and add more garlic if needed.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwich
Now that the pesto sauce is ready, it’s time to assemble the sandwich. Here’s what you need to do:
- Lay out four slices of bread on a clean surface.
- Spread a layer of pesto sauce on each slice of bread. You can use as much or as little pesto as you like, depending on your taste preferences.
- Top the pesto sauce with a slice of turkey breast.
- Add a layer of mixed greens on top of the turkey.
- Add a layer of sliced cucumber, bell peppers, and red onion on top of the greens.
- Sprinkle a bit of feta cheese on top of the vegetables (if using).
- Season the sandwich with salt and pepper to taste.
Tips for Assembling the Sandwich
Assembling the sandwich can be a bit tricky, but with a few tips and tricks, you can get it just right. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Use a serrated knife: A serrated knife is best for slicing the bread and vegetables, as it will help prevent them from tearing.
- Don’t overfill the sandwich: It’s easy to overfill the sandwich, which can make it difficult to eat. Try to balance the filling ingredients so that the sandwich is full but not overflowing.
- Add the cheese last: The cheese can be a bit messy, so it’s best to add it last. This way, you can sprinkle it on top of the sandwich and avoid making a mess.
Tips for Serving the Turkey Pesto Sandwich
Now that the sandwich is assembled, it’s time to serve it. Here are a few tips for serving the turkey pesto sandwich:
- Cut the sandwich in half: Cutting the sandwich in half can make it easier to eat and more visually appealing.
- Serve with a side: The turkey pesto sandwich is perfect for serving with a side of chips or a salad.
- Use a panini press: If you have a panini press, you can use it to grill the sandwich and make it crispy and melty.
Conclusion
The turkey pesto sandwich is a delicious and easy-to-make sandwich that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. With its creamy pesto sauce, sliced turkey breast, and crunchy vegetables, this sandwich is a perfect combination of flavors and textures. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can make a turkey pesto sandwich that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So next time you’re in the mood for a sandwich, give the turkey pesto sandwich a try. You won’t be disappointed!
What is the best type of bread to use for a turkey pesto sandwich?
The best type of bread to use for a turkey pesto sandwich is a crusty bread that can hold up to the moist filling. Ciabatta or baguette are excellent options, as they have a slightly crispy crust and a soft interior. You can also use a hearty whole grain bread, such as whole wheat or multigrain, for a nuttier flavor.
Avoid using a too-soft bread, such as white bread or sourdough, as it may become soggy and fall apart when filled with the turkey and pesto. If you want to get a bit fancier, you can also use a garlic bread or a rosemary bread to add extra flavor to your sandwich.
How do I make homemade pesto for my turkey pesto sandwich?
Making homemade pesto is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients: fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Start by combining the basil leaves, garlic, and pine nuts in a food processor and process until the mixture is well combined and slightly smooth. Then, add the Parmesan cheese and process until the cheese is well combined with the basil mixture.
Finally, slowly pour in the olive oil while processing the mixture until it reaches the desired consistency. You can adjust the amount of garlic and cheese to taste, and also add other ingredients such as lemon juice or zest to give the pesto a bit of brightness. Homemade pesto is best used fresh, but it can also be stored in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for up to 6 months.
What type of turkey is best to use for a turkey pesto sandwich?
The best type of turkey to use for a turkey pesto sandwich is sliced deli turkey breast. Look for a high-quality deli turkey that is low in sodium and made with wholesome ingredients. You can also use roasted turkey breast or smoked turkey breast for a more complex flavor.
Avoid using processed turkey products, such as turkey slices with added preservatives or fillers, as they may have a less-than-desirable texture and flavor. If you want to get a bit fancier, you can also use a heritage breed turkey or a turkey breast that has been marinated in herbs and spices for added flavor.
How do I assemble a turkey pesto sandwich?
Assembling a turkey pesto sandwich is a straightforward process that requires just a few ingredients: sliced turkey breast, homemade pesto, cheese, lettuce, and tomato. Start by spreading a layer of pesto on the bottom slice of bread, followed by a layer of sliced turkey breast. Then, add a layer of cheese, such as mozzarella or provolone, followed by a layer of lettuce and tomato.
Finally, top the sandwich with the top slice of bread and cut it in half. You can also add other ingredients, such as sliced avocado or bacon, to give the sandwich a bit of creaminess and crunch. Be sure to assemble the sandwich just before serving, as the pesto and cheese can make the bread soggy if left to sit for too long.
Can I customize my turkey pesto sandwich with other ingredients?
Yes, you can customize your turkey pesto sandwich with a variety of other ingredients to suit your taste. Some ideas include sliced avocado for added creaminess, crispy bacon for added smokiness, or sliced red onion for added sweetness. You can also add other cheeses, such as feta or goat cheese, for a tangier flavor.
Other ingredients you might consider adding include sliced bell peppers, sliced cucumbers, or sprouts. Be sure to balance the flavors and textures of the ingredients, as too many ingredients can make the sandwich overwhelming. You can also experiment with different types of pesto, such as sun-dried tomato pesto or kale pesto, for a unique flavor.
How do I store leftover turkey pesto sandwiches?
Leftover turkey pesto sandwiches can be stored in the fridge for up to a day or frozen for up to 2 months. To store in the fridge, wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the fridge. To freeze, wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag.
When you’re ready to eat the sandwich, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge or thaw it quickly by leaving it at room temperature for a few hours. You can also reheat the sandwich in the microwave or toaster oven to give it a crispy texture. Be sure to check the sandwich for any signs of spoilage before eating it, such as slimy texture or off smell.
Can I make turkey pesto sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, you can make turkey pesto sandwiches ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the sandwiches just before serving. You can prepare the ingredients, such as slicing the turkey and cheese and making the pesto, up to a day in advance. However, it’s best to assemble the sandwiches just before serving, as the pesto and cheese can make the bread soggy if left to sit for too long.
If you need to make the sandwiches ahead of time, consider assembling them without the lettuce and tomato, which can make the bread soggy. You can also consider using a bread that is less prone to sogginess, such as a crusty bread or a bread with a firmer texture. Be sure to store the sandwiches in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to serve them.