Description
This Gourmet Ciabatta Sandwich is a delicious Italian-inspired main course featuring crusty toasted ciabatta bread layered with savory prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, roasted red peppers, and peppery arugula. Enhanced with a spread of pesto or basil aioli and drizzled with balsamic glaze, this elegant yet simple sandwich is perfect for a quick lunch or picnic.
Ingredients
Scale
Sandwich Ingredients
- 1 ciabatta loaf or 2 ciabatta rolls, sliced horizontally
- 4 ounces sliced prosciutto (or deli ham or turkey)
- 4 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 1 roasted red bell pepper (jarred or homemade), sliced
- 1 small handful arugula or baby spinach
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
- 1 tablespoon pesto or basil aioli
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Slice the ciabatta loaf or rolls in half horizontally. Lightly brush the cut sides with olive oil to ensure a crispy golden texture upon toasting.
- Toast the Bread: Toast the bread in a skillet over medium heat or under a broiler until the surfaces are lightly golden and crisp, which takes about 5 minutes. This step adds a delightful crunch and enhances flavor.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Spread pesto or basil aioli evenly on the bottom half of the toasted bread. Layer with slices of prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, roasted red bell pepper, and a handful of arugula or baby spinach.
- Add Finishing Touches: Drizzle the layered ingredients with balsamic glaze and season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste for balanced flavor.
- Close and Slice: Place the top half of the ciabatta over the filling and press gently to hold all components together. Slice the sandwich in half if using rolls, or into portions if using a whole loaf.
- Serve or Store: Serve the sandwich immediately to enjoy its freshest texture, or wrap tightly for a picnic or lunch on the go.
Notes
- This sandwich is highly customizable—try adding grilled chicken or sun-dried tomatoes for a different twist.
- To make it vegetarian, simply omit the prosciutto and add grilled eggplant or zucchini slices.
- For a spicier flavor, add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or swap arugula for peppery watercress.
- Use fresh homemade roasted peppers if possible for enhanced flavor compared to jarred.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Sandwich
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
