Description
This Focaccia Grinder Sandwich is a deliciously hearty and flavorful meal featuring layers of cured meats, provolone cheese, and fresh tossed greens on toasted focaccia bread. The sandwich is enhanced with pesto, pepperoncini, and Italian dressing, providing a perfect balance of juicy, crispy, and savory elements for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread & Spread
- 1 loaf of focaccia (Trader Joe’s focaccia with roasted tomato and Parmesan recommended)
- 1/4 cup pesto (refrigerated)
- 1/4 cup mayo (optional)
Meats & Cheese
- 2 ounces uncured Calabrese salame (about 8 slices)
- 2 ounces uncured capocollo (about 8 slices)
- 4 large slices Provolone cheese
Salad Toppings
- 1 head romaine lettuce, shredded (2-3 cups)
- 1/4 of a red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoncini
- 1/4 to 1/3 cup Italian dressing
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for toasting the sandwich.
- Slice Focaccia: Using a serrated knife, carefully slice the focaccia loaf horizontally in half while keeping it flat to prevent toppings from falling off. Remove the top half and set it aside.
- Layer Sandwich: Spread the pesto evenly over the bottom half of the focaccia. Layer the salame, capocollo, and Provolone cheese evenly over the pesto.
- Toast Sandwich: Place the bottom half with the layered ingredients in the preheated oven. Toast for 6-8 minutes until the cheese begins to melt. Keep the top half separate to avoid sticking.
- Toss and Layer Greens: In a bowl, combine shredded romaine lettuce, thinly sliced red onion, sliced pepperoncini, Italian dressing, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine thoroughly and layer this salad mixture on top of the toasted sandwich base. Add dollops of mayo if desired.
- Finish: Place the top half of the focaccia over the salad-topped base. Press gently to secure and slice the sandwich into wedges. Serve and enjoy the juicy, crispy, and savory sandwich!
Notes
- For best results, keep the focaccia flat while slicing to prevent toppings from sliding off.
- The mayo is optional but adds a creamy texture that complements the savory meats and tangy salad.
- You can adjust the amount of Italian dressing and pepperoncini based on your preferred level of tanginess and spice.
- Use uncured meats for a cleaner flavor and less sodium.
- Serve immediately after assembling to enjoy the contrast between the toasted sandwich and fresh salad toppings.
