Description
This Focaccia Grinder Sandwich is a deliciously hearty and flavorful sandwich featuring aromatic pesto, savory uncured salame and capocollo, melted Provolone cheese, and a tangy pepperoncini and romaine salad. Toasted to perfection in the oven, it offers a perfect combination of crispy, juicy, and fresh textures, making it an ideal satisfying meal for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread and Spread
- 1 loaf of focaccia (Trader Joe’s focaccia with roasted tomato and Parmesan recommended)
- 1/4 cup pesto (refrigerated, e.g., from Trader Joe’s)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (optional)
Meats and Cheese
- 2 ounces uncured Calabrese salame (about 8 slices)
- 2 ounces uncured capocollo (about 8 slices)
- 4 large slices Provolone cheese
Vegetables and 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: With a serrated knife, carefully slice the focaccia loaf horizontally in half while keeping it flat to prevent toppings from spilling. Lift the top half and set aside.
- Layer Sandwich: Spread pesto evenly on the bottom half of the focaccia. Then layer the uncured Calabrese salame, uncured capocollo, and Provolone cheese slices on top.
- Toast Sandwich: Place the bottom half with the toppings into the preheated oven and toast for 6-8 minutes until the cheese begins to melt and the bread crisps. Keep the top half aside to prevent sticking.
- Toss and Layer Greens: In a bowl, combine shredded romaine, thinly sliced red onion, sliced pepperoncini, Italian dressing, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste and toss well. Arrange the dressed salad on top of the toasted sandwich.
- Finish: Add a dollop of mayonnaise on top of the salad if desired. Press the top half of the focaccia over the assembled ingredients and slice the sandwich into wedges. Serve immediately and enjoy the combination of juicy, crispy, and savory flavors.
Notes
- You can use any focaccia bread, but one with added flavors like roasted tomato and Parmesan adds extra depth.
- Adjust the amount of Italian dressing and pepperoncini to your taste for preferred tanginess and spice.
- The mayonnaise is optional but adds creaminess and balances the tangy and salty flavors.
- Be careful when slicing the focaccia horizontally to keep the bread flat and prevent toppings from falling.
- The sandwich is best enjoyed fresh right after assembling for optimal texture.
