This Turkey Pesto Sandwich is easy and quick to make, making it perfect for a busy day when you want a gourmet meal without the hassle.
The fresh vegetables, like tomato and spinach or arugula, add a refreshing crunch and a burst of color, making the sandwich not just tasty but visually appealing too.
It’s also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it hot or cold, making it great for any season.
The pesto sauce gives it an aromatic and slightly nutty flavor that elevates a simple turkey sandwich to something special.
Perfect for lunch, a quick dinner, or even a picnic, this sandwich combines the rich, savory taste of turkey with the fresh, vibrant flavor of pesto. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions for Turkey Pesto Sandwich
- Side Salad:
- Serve with a fresh green salad tossed with vinaigrette or a Caesar salad for a light, complementary side.
- Chips:
- Pair with a side of kettle-cooked chips, sweet potato chips, or baked potato chips for a satisfying crunch.
- Soup:
- Enjoy with a bowl of tomato soup, chicken noodle soup, or vegetable soup for a comforting and filling meal.
- Pickles:
- Add a side of pickles or pickled vegetables to enhance the flavors and add a tangy bite.
- Fruit:
- Serve with a side of fresh fruit like apple slices, grapes, or a fruit salad for a refreshing and healthy option.
- Coleslaw:
- Complement the sandwich with a serving of coleslaw, either classic or a tangy vinegar-based version.
- Roasted Vegetables:
- Pair with roasted or grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a wholesome side.
- Potato Salad:
- Enjoy with a creamy potato salad or a lighter vinegar-based potato salad for a hearty accompaniment.
These serving suggestions will round out your meal and enhance the flavors of the Turkey Pesto Sandwich, making it a satisfying and delicious dining experience.
Tips & Tricks
- Use Fresh Ingredients:
- Fresh bread, ripe tomatoes, and quality deli turkey will significantly enhance the flavor of your sandwich.
- Even Slicing:
- Slice ingredients like tomatoes and avocado evenly to ensure each bite has a balanced mix of flavors and textures.
- Bread Selection:
- Choose sturdy bread like ciabatta, sourdough, or a baguette to hold up to the fillings and prevent sogginess.
- Pesto Application:
- Spread the pesto evenly on the bread to ensure every bite has that delicious basil-garlic flavor.
- Cheese Melting:
- To help the cheese melt more evenly, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before adding it to the sandwich.
- Grilling Technique:
- If using a skillet, press down gently on the sandwich with a spatula to ensure even browning and melting. If using a panini press, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.
- Butter/Oil Application:
- Spread softened butter or brush olive oil on the outside of the bread for a golden, crispy crust.
- Avoid Overfilling:
- Don’t overstuff the sandwich, as this can make it difficult to handle and eat. Balance the fillings to maintain a good structure.
- Rest Before Slicing:
- Let the sandwich rest for a minute after grilling before slicing. This helps the cheese set slightly and keeps the ingredients from sliding out when you cut it.
- Experiment with Add-Ins:
- Feel free to add extras like sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added flavor and variety.
Following these tips will help you create a perfectly delicious and well-balanced Turkey Pesto Sandwich every time!
Recipe FAQ’s
What kind of turkey is best for a turkey pesto sandwich?
Turkey breast is the best choice due to its lean texture and mild flavor, which pairs perfectly with the vibrant pesto.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Provolone, mozzarella, or Swiss cheese are excellent choices. They melt well and complement the flavors of the turkey and pesto.
How can I make this sandwich healthier?
Use whole-grain bread, add plenty of fresh vegetables, and use a light hand with the cheese and pesto. You can also opt for a low-fat cheese or skip it altogether.
Turkey Pesto Sandwich
Ingredients
- 4 slices of your favorite bread sourdough, ciabatta, or whole grain work well
- ½ pound sliced turkey breast
- ¼ cup pesto sauce store-bought or homemade
- 4 slices of mozzarella cheese
- 1 ripe tomato sliced
- ½ avocado sliced
- Handful of fresh spinach or arugula
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise optional
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or softened butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread:Lightly brush one side of each bread slice with olive oil or spread with softened butter.
- Assemble the Sandwich:On the non-oiled side of two bread slices, spread a thin layer of pesto sauce.Place the sliced turkey evenly on top of the pesto.Add the mozzarella cheese slices on top of the turkey.Layer the tomato and avocado slices over the cheese.Add a handful of fresh spinach or arugula.If you like, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the non-oiled side of the remaining two bread slices, then place these slices, mayonnaise side down, on top of the sandwich fillings to close the sandwich.
- Grill the Sandwich:Heat a skillet or panini press over medium heat.Place the sandwiches in the skillet (or in the panini press) and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. If using a panini press, cook according to the manufacturer's instructions until the sandwich is pressed and heated through.
- Serve:Remove the sandwiches from the skillet or press and let them cool for a minute before slicing them in half.
- Enjoy:Serve the sandwiches warm with a side of chips, salad, or pickles.
Notes
- Homemade Pesto: If you prefer homemade pesto, blend 1 cup fresh basil leaves, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts, 2 garlic cloves, and 1/4 cup olive oil until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add Some Crunch: For added texture, consider adding a few slices of cucumber or some sprouts to the sandwich.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the sandwiches in advance and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, then grill them just before serving.