Turkey Basil Pesto Panini Recipe

Introduction

The Turkey Basil Pesto Panini is a delicious, savory sandwich that combines the fresh flavors of turkey, basil pesto, and mozzarella, all pressed between crispy, golden panini bread. This sandwich is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a snack. The flavors of the turkey and the basil pesto create a harmonious balance, with the mozzarella adding a creamy texture and the bread providing a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, feeding the family, or entertaining guests, the Turkey Basil Pesto Panini will leave everyone craving more.

This panini brings together the best of both worlds: a hearty turkey filling paired with the aromatic and flavorful basil pesto, resulting in a sandwich that’s not only satisfying but also bursting with vibrant flavors. It’s quick to make, customizable, and perfect for anyone who enjoys fresh, homemade sandwiches with a touch of gourmet flair. This guide will walk you through each step of preparing the perfect Turkey Basil Pesto Panini, offer tips for success, and suggest variations to explore.

Why You’ll Love Turkey Basil Pesto Panini

• Savory and Flavorful: The combination of juicy turkey, rich basil pesto, and creamy mozzarella creates a savory explosion of flavors that is satisfying without being overwhelming.
• Crispy, Golden Bread: The panini is perfectly toasted with a crispy, golden exterior, making it both crunchy and soft inside—a truly delightful contrast of textures.
• Fresh, Homemade Pesto: Making your own basil pesto from scratch adds a fresh and aromatic element that really elevates the sandwich, with garlic, pine nuts, and parmesan bringing out the best in the turkey.
• Quick and Easy: This panini comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight meal or an easy weekend lunch.
• Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients and flavor profile based on your preferences. Whether you prefer a more robust pesto, extra cheese, or additional veggies, this panini can be tailored to suit your taste.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
• Servings: 2 paninis (can be doubled or tripled depending on the number of servings needed)
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 450-500 calories per panini, depending on the size of the bread and the specific ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450-500 kcal
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 40-45g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g

Ingredients

For the Turkey Basil Pesto Panini:

• 2 ciabatta rolls (or 4 slices of your favorite sandwich bread)
• 6 ounces deli-style sliced turkey breast (preferably fresh)
• 2 tablespoons basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
• 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese (or ½ cup shredded mozzarella)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing the bread)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Homemade Basil Pesto (optional):

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons pine nuts (or walnuts)
• 2 garlic cloves
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Special Equipment

Although this recipe is simple to prepare, having a few key pieces of equipment will help ensure your Turkey Basil Pesto Panini turns out perfectly every time:

1. Panini Press or Griddle: A panini press is the best tool for achieving that signature crispy, golden crust, but a cast-iron skillet or griddle will also work for pressing the sandwich if you don’t have a press.
2. Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is essential for slicing the ciabatta rolls and cutting the panini into halves or quarters for serving.
3. Pastry Brush: If you’re brushing the bread with olive oil, a pastry brush makes the process cleaner and more precise.
4. Mixing Bowl: For preparing the homemade basil pesto, you’ll need a mixing bowl to combine the ingredients before blending them into a smooth sauce.
5. Food Processor or Blender: A food processor or blender is necessary for making your own pesto. This equipment helps to easily combine the ingredients into a smooth paste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Basil Pesto (if making homemade pesto)

To make fresh basil pesto, start by washing and drying the basil leaves thoroughly. In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts (or walnuts), garlic cloves, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse a few times until the ingredients are coarsely chopped.

With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. If you like, you can add a tablespoon of lemon juice for extra brightness. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once blended, set the pesto aside.

Tip: You can make extra pesto and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze it for longer storage.

2. Prepare the Bread

Slice the ciabatta rolls in half horizontally, or if you’re using slices of sandwich bread, make sure each slice is thick enough to hold the filling without becoming soggy.

Brush the cut sides of the bread lightly with olive oil. This will help the bread crisp up nicely and prevent it from drying out while grilling.

3. Assemble the Panini

Spread about 1 tablespoon of basil pesto on the inside of the bottom slice of each ciabatta roll. This will create a flavorful base layer. Top the pesto with a few slices of turkey breast (around 3 ounces per panini), followed by 2 slices of fresh mozzarella (or a generous amount of shredded mozzarella). If you prefer a more robust flavor, you can add extra cheese or turkey.

Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Place the top slice of bread on the sandwich to close it.

4. Grill the Panini

If using a panini press: Preheat the press according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Place the assembled sandwich in the press and close the lid. Grill for 3-5 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted.

If using a skillet or griddle: Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the panini in the pan and press it down gently with a spatula or a heavy object (like another skillet). Grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is crispy and the cheese has melted.

5. Serve the Panini

Once the panini is golden and crispy, remove it from the press or skillet. Let it rest for a minute or two before cutting it into halves or quarters. This helps the cheese set slightly, making it easier to cut without everything spilling out.

Serve your Turkey Basil Pesto Panini hot with your favorite sides.

Tips for Perfect Turkey Basil Pesto Panini

• Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh mozzarella and freshly sliced turkey breast. Pre-packaged deli meat can be used, but the fresh varieties will provide a better taste and texture.
• Customize Your Pesto: While basil pesto is the traditional choice, feel free to experiment with other herbs or nuts in your pesto. Consider using arugula or spinach in place of basil, and swap out the pine nuts for almonds or cashews for a unique twist.
• Pressing the Panini: If you don’t have a panini press, use a heavy cast-iron skillet to press the sandwich. A second skillet on top will work as a great weight, helping to evenly press the sandwich.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can make the pesto ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week. This allows you to prepare the panini in just a few minutes when you’re ready to eat.
• Don’t Overstuff: While it’s tempting to load the sandwich with more turkey and cheese, avoid overstuffing the panini, as it can cause it to fall apart while grilling.

Variations of Turkey Basil Pesto Panini

• Turkey and Avocado Panini: Add some sliced avocado to the sandwich for a creamy, rich element that balances the savory turkey and pesto.
• Turkey and Sun-Dried Tomato Panini: Add a few slices of sun-dried tomatoes for an extra depth of flavor and a touch of tanginess.
• Grilled Veggie Panini: Add grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions to your panini for a vegetarian version that still packs a punch of flavor.
• Spicy Turkey Basil Pesto Panini: Spice things up by adding a few slices of jalapeño or a dash of red pepper flakes to the pesto or directly onto the sandwich.
• Bacon Turkey Basil Pesto Panini: For a more indulgent version, add crispy bacon to your sandwich. The smoky, salty flavor of bacon complements the turkey and pesto beautifully.

Storage and Shelf Life

Turkey Basil Pesto Panini is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored for later. To store, wrap the sandwich in foil or parchment paper and refrigerate for up to 1-2 days. Reheat in a panini press or skillet to crisp up the bread and melt the cheese again.

For the basil pesto, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze the pesto in an ice cube tray for easy portioning and long-term storage.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Turkey Basil Pesto Panini

Pair this flavorful sandwich with a variety of complementary sides:

• Crispy Potato Chips: The crunchiness and saltiness of potato chips make the perfect accompaniment to the soft, warm panini.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the rich sandwich.
• Soup: Serve the panini alongside a bowl of tomato soup, creamy potato soup, or roasted vegetable soup for a comforting and hearty meal.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with citrus and berries adds a sweet contrast to the savory sandwich.

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Conclusion

The Turkey Basil Pesto Panini is a delightful combination of savory turkey, fresh basil pesto, and creamy mozzarella all pressed between perfectly toasted bread. Whether for a quick lunch, dinner, or snack, this panini is sure to satisfy your cravings. With its versatility and easy preparation, it’s the ideal choice for anyone looking for a flavorful and satisfying sandwich. So, grab your ingredients and treat yourself to a delicious Turkey Basil Pesto Panini that will quickly become a favorite in your sandwich repertoire!