Description
Inspired by the beloved actor, this sandwich is a delicious combination of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Simple yet full of flavor, it’s a tribute to the Italian classic that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For Stanley Tucci’s Favourite Sandwich:
- 2 slices of good-quality Italian bread (ciabatta, focaccia, or baguette are ideal)
- 2–3 ounces of prosciutto
- 2 ounces of fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 2–3 tablespoons of sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 1 tablespoon of fresh basil, chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: A drizzle of honey or mustard for added flavor
For Serving:
- A handful of mixed greens (optional)
- Side of chips or pickles (optional)
Instructions
Start by preparing all of your ingredients. Slice the mozzarella into thick pieces, as thin slices can melt too quickly and lose their creamy texture. If your sun-dried tomatoes are packed in oil, be sure to drain them well, then chop them into small pieces. Chopping the sun-dried tomatoes will help distribute their tangy, concentrated flavor evenly throughout the sandwich.
If you’re using basil, chop it finely to sprinkle over the sandwich for an added burst of freshness.
While not strictly necessary, toasting the bread will add a delightful crunch to your sandwich. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Drizzle a little olive oil on the cut sides of your bread slices. Once the pan is hot, place the bread in the pan, cut side down. Toast the bread for 2-3 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
If you prefer not to toast the bread, you can skip this step and use fresh bread straight from the loaf.
Once your bread is toasted, it’s time to assemble the sandwich. Start by laying down one slice of bread on a clean surface. Begin by adding a few slices of prosciutto. Layer them evenly across the bread, ensuring that the prosciutto covers the entire slice. The prosciutto adds a salty, savory flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Next, add the fresh mozzarella slices on top of the prosciutto. The mozzarella should be soft and creamy, offering a mild, rich flavor that contrasts beautifully with the salty prosciutto.
Scatter the chopped sun-dried tomatoes over the mozzarella. These tomatoes add a tangy, concentrated flavor that brings the sandwich to life. If you’re using basil, sprinkle it over the tomatoes for an extra layer of fresh flavor.
Drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the sandwich to enhance the flavors and provide some richness. If you like a little acidity, add a few drops of balsamic vinegar as well. Season the sandwich with salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that the prosciutto is already quite salty.
For an added twist, you can drizzle a little honey or mustard on the inside of the bread before closing the sandwich. This adds a touch of sweetness or tanginess that complements the savory ingredients.
Place the second slice of bread on top, pressing down gently to hold everything together. If you prefer a hot sandwich, you can place the assembled sandwich back into the grill pan or skillet for an additional 1-2 minutes to melt the mozzarella and give the sandwich a crispier exterior.
Once the sandwich is fully assembled, cut it in half diagonally to serve. If you’re adding a side, serve with a handful of mixed greens or some chips and pickles for a well-rounded meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 500-600 kcal
- Fat: 30-35g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
- Protein: 25-30g