Mediterranean Turkey Panini Recipe How to Make It Taste of Home from www.tasteofhome.com
Introduction to Panini
Panini is an Italian dish that is made with bread and filled with various ingredients. It is often served as a quick and easy lunch or snack. The bread used for panini is typically a ciabatta or focaccia loaf, which is then sliced in half and filled with meats, cheeses, vegetables, and sauces. The sandwich is then grilled or pressed, which creates a crispy exterior and melted interior.
Ingredients
To make a delicious panini, you will need the following ingredients:
1 ciabatta or focaccia loaf
2 tbsp butter or olive oil
4 slices of deli meat (such as ham or turkey)
2 slices of cheese (such as mozzarella or cheddar)
1/4 cup roasted red peppers
1/4 cup sliced onions
1/4 cup sliced tomatoes
2 tbsp pesto sauce
Instructions
1. Cut the ciabatta or focaccia loaf in half lengthwise. 2. Spread butter or olive oil on the inside of each half. 3. Layer the deli meat, cheese, roasted red peppers, onions, and tomatoes on one half of the bread. 4. Spread pesto sauce on the other half of the bread. 5. Put the two halves of the bread together to make a sandwich. 6. Heat a panini press or grill pan over medium-high heat. 7. Place the sandwich on the press or grill pan and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted. 8. Remove the sandwich from the heat and let it cool for a minute or two. 9. Cut the sandwich in half and serve.
Nutrition
A typical panini sandwich contains around 500-700 calories, depending on the type of bread and filling used. It is also high in fat and sodium, so it should be enjoyed in moderation. To make a healthier panini, choose whole-grain bread, lean meats, and plenty of vegetables. You can also use low-fat cheese or skip it altogether.
Variations
One of the best things about panini is that it can be customized to your liking. Here are some ideas for different types of panini:
Vegetarian Panini
To make a vegetarian panini, skip the deli meat and add more vegetables. You can use grilled zucchini, eggplant, or portobello mushrooms, along with fresh spinach or arugula. Add a smear of hummus or avocado for extra flavor.
Breakfast Panini
Panini can also be a great breakfast option. Use a whole-grain English muffin or bagel as the bread, and fill it with scrambled eggs, bacon or sausage, and cheese. You can also add sliced avocado or tomato for extra nutrition.
Dessert Panini
For a sweet treat, try making a dessert panini. Use a sweet bread like brioche or challah, and fill it with sliced fruit like bananas or strawberries, along with Nutella or peanut butter. Cook the sandwich until the bread is golden brown and the filling is warm and gooey.
Conclusion
Panini is a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed any time of day. With a few simple ingredients and a panini press or grill pan, you can make a tasty and satisfying sandwich in minutes. Try out different variations and find your favorite flavor combination.