Short Description
The Sun-dried Tomato Pesto Turkey Sandwich is a flavorful and satisfying meal featuring tender turkey, creamy pesto, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for lunch or a quick dinner, this sandwich delivers a delightful balance of textures and flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with Flavor: Sun-dried tomatoes and pesto create a rich, savory taste.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just a few minutes with minimal prep.
- Customizable: Swap ingredients to match your preferences.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make ahead and enjoy throughout the week.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Sourdough or ciabatta bread
- Sliced turkey breast
- Sun-dried tomato pesto
- Fresh spinach or arugula
- Provolone or mozzarella cheese
- Mayonnaise or aioli (optional)
- Butter (for toasting)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Directions
- Prepare the Bread: Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each bread slice.
- Assemble the Sandwich: On the unbuttered side of one slice, spread sun-dried tomato pesto. Layer with turkey slices, cheese, and fresh spinach or arugula. Add mayo or aioli if desired.
- Toast the Sandwich: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwich in the pan, buttered side down. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and the cheese melts.
- Serve: Remove from heat, slice in half, and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2 sandwiches
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap turkey for grilled vegetables or a plant-based alternative.
- Extra Crunch: Add crispy bacon or toasted pine nuts.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Use a blend of cheeses like cheddar and Swiss.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Toast in a skillet or air fryer to keep the bread crisp.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as bread may become soggy upon thawing.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes! Whole wheat, baguette, or gluten-free bread all work well.
How can I make this sandwich healthier?
Use whole grain bread, lean turkey, and a lighter pesto sauce.
Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it in advance and toast just before serving.
What cheese pairs best with this sandwich?
Provolone, mozzarella, or gouda all complement the flavors well.
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes! Store-bought pesto works great, but homemade adds extra freshness.
What sides pair well with this sandwich?
A side salad, soup, or roasted vegetables make great accompaniments.
How do I keep my sandwich from getting soggy?
Toast the bread lightly before assembling and avoid overloading with wet ingredients.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?
Yes, but sun-dried tomatoes add a more concentrated flavor.
Is this sandwich good for meal prep?
Yes! Wrap it tightly and store in the fridge, then reheat before eating.
Can I add avocado?
Absolutely! Sliced avocado adds creaminess and enhances the flavor.
Conclusion
The Sun-dried Tomato Pesto Turkey Sandwich is a delicious, easy-to-make meal perfect for any time of day. With its bold flavors and satisfying textures, this sandwich is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!
PrintSun-dried Tomato Pesto Turkey Sandwich
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (if toasting)
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 sandwich 1x
- Category: Lunch, Sandwich
- Method: No-cook / Panini press
Description
This Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Turkey Sandwich combines savory turkey, rich sun-dried tomato pesto, fresh greens, and melty cheese on toasted artisan bread. A simple yet delicious meal!
Ingredients
- For the Sandwich:
- 2 slices of crusty bread (sourdough, ciabatta, or focaccia)
- 4 oz deli-style turkey breast (or leftover roasted turkey)
- 2 tbsp sun-dried tomato pesto (see below for homemade version)
- 1 slice provolone or mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh arugula or spinach
- 2 slices tomato (optional)
- 1 tbsp butter, for toasting (optional)
- For Homemade Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto:
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp pine nuts or walnuts
- 1 clove garlic
- 1/2 tsp dried basil (or 1 tbsp fresh basil)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Make the Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto (If Homemade)
- In a food processor, blend sun-dried tomatoes, olive oil, Parmesan, pine nuts, garlic, and basil until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 2: Assemble the Sandwich
- Spread sun-dried tomato pesto evenly on one slice of bread.
- Layer with turkey, cheese, arugula, and tomato slices (if using).
- Top with the second slice of bread.
- Step 3: Toast & Serve (Optional)
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt butter. Toast the sandwich for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and the cheese is melty.
- Slice in half and serve warm!
Notes
- No panini press? Use a skillet with a heavy pan on top for a crispy, grilled effect.
- Make it spicy: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot honey.
- Bread swap: Try it on a baguette, wrap, or croissant for a twist.
- Dairy-free? Swap out the cheese for a dairy-free alternative or avocado slices.
- Details
Nutrition
- Calories: ~450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
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