Festive SunDried Tomato Turkey Sandwich

Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 2 · Technique: Toasting · Storage: Store wrapped in plastic in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Quick Answer

Elevate your autumn lunches with a delicious Sun-Dried Tomato Focaccia Turkey Sandwich, layered with turkey, mozzarella, pesto, and arugula.

On crisp autumn afternoons in New York City, I find myself wandering the aisles of my local Trader Joe's, especially this time of year when the fall flavors begin to take center stage. With Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner, I always seek out simple yet flavorful recipes that elevate everyday eats into something special. Enter: the Sun-Dried Tomato Focaccia Turkey Sandwich. This recipe is not only a feast for the senses but also an impressive highlight for gatherings during the festive season.

A Flavorful Autumn Delight

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Easy and quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
• Combines rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh ingredients for a delightful taste experience.
• Perfect for autumn, capturing the essence of the season with every bite.
• Versatile - customize by adding your favorite ingredients, like roasted peppers or avocado.
• Impressive enough to serve at holiday gatherings yet simple enough for everyday meals.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh and flavorful ingredients to create your Sun-Dried Tomato Focaccia Turkey Sandwich:

Bread

• 1 loaf of Trader Joe's sun-dried tomato focaccia bread

Protein

• 8 ounces of thinly sliced turkey breast

Dairy

• 4 ounces of fresh mozzarella, sliced

Greens and Sauces

• 1 cup of fresh arugula
• ½ cup of pesto (store-bought or homemade)

Extras

• Olive oil for drizzling
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Trader Joe's Sun-Dried Tomato Focaccia Turkey Sandwich (Step-by-Step)

This sandwich is as fulfilling to make as it is to eat. Follow these simple steps for a delightful culinary creation:

Step 1: Slice the Focaccia

Start by cutting your sun-dried tomato focaccia bread in half horizontally. The fragrant aroma of the tomatoes and herbs is intoxicating as the knife slices through the soft, pillowy texture.

Step 2: Layer the Turkey and Cheese

Lay down a generous layer of the thinly sliced turkey breast. I prefer using a moist, roasted turkey from the deli as it adds the perfect combination of flavor and juiciness. Next, place the slices of fresh mozzarella on top. As they nestle against the turkey, you can almost imagine how the melty goodness will harmonize with the sun-dried tomatoes.

Step 3: Add the Pesto and Arugula

Drizzle a few spoonfuls of pesto over the mozzarella, letting the vibrant green sauce seep into every crevice. The nutty undertones of the pine nuts in the pesto bring another dimension to the sandwich. Finish it off with a handful of fresh arugula for a peppery crunch-its vibrant color is an eye-catching contrast against the creamy mozzarella.

Step 4: Season and Assemble

Don't forget to sprinkle a touch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper over the greens for an extra flavor boost. Carefully place the top half of the focaccia back onto the sandwiches and press gently to hold everything in place.

Step 5: Toast the Sandwich

If you have a panini press, now's the time to shine! Preheat it and toast the sandwich until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has begun to melt-it's worth the wait as the aroma fills your kitchen. If you don't have a press, a 10-inch cast-iron skillet will do just fine. Use another heavy skillet to press down on the sandwich while it's cooking.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Once toasted, let the sandwich rest for a minute before slicing. I love wrapping it in parchment paper; it adds a charming rustic touch. The first bite is a symphony of flavors-the sweet tang of sun-dried tomatoes harmonizes with the earthy pesto and the creamy mozzarella.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overstuffing the Sandwich: While it's tempting to pile on more ingredients, too much filling can make it fall apart. Stick to the recipe proportions for stability.
• Not Toasting the Focaccia: Skipping the toasting step can lead to a soggy sandwich-make sure to give it that delightful crunch!
• Using Canned or Low-Quality Pesto: A poor-quality pesto can overpower your sandwich. Opt for a fresh, vibrant one for the best flavor experience.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• For added flavor, consider adding roasted red peppers or slices of avocado.
• Pair this sandwich with a simple side salad or soup for a more substantial meal.
• If you're preparing this for a gathering, you can assemble the sandwiches ahead of time and toast them just before serving.

Variations

• Swap out the turkey for chicken or a plant-based alternative for a different protein option.
• Use different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or provolone, for a unique flavor profile.
• Try different breads, like ciabatta or sourdough, for a twist on the classic focaccia.

How to Serve

• Wrap in parchment paper for a rustic presentation.
• Serve with a light salad, chips, or a cup of your favorite soup.
• Cut into smaller portions for an appetizer-style serving at gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage:

• Make Ahead: Assemble the sandwiches without toasting and refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
• Storage: Wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap and store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven or a panini press to restore crunch.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture may change upon thawing.

Recipe Notes / What I Learned:

Each time I make this sandwich, I'm reminded of the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to make something extraordinary. It's a delightful reminder that sometimes the best dishes don't require elaborate preparations; they just need great ingredients and a little creativity to shine. Enjoy your culinary adventure this holiday season!

Yield and Serving Size:

Yield: 2 servings · Serving Size: 1 sandwich

Nutrition Snapshot:

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~450 calories · 28g protein · 35g carbs · 20g fat

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