Ultimate Gourmet Ciabatta Sandwich with Savory Pesto Butter

The Ultimate Gourmet Ciabatta Sandwich transforms a simple meal into something extraordinary with its savory pesto butter and high-quality ingredients.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 10

Total Time 25

Servings: 2 sandwiches

Course: Lunch

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 650

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Sandwich

2 halves Ciabatta Substitute with sourdough or focaccia for variety.
100 g Cooked Ham Turkey or chicken work well as leaner alternatives.
100 g Spicy Salami Replace with pepperoni or omit for less heat.
100 g Pancetta Bacon can be a tasty substitute.
7 slices Monterey Jack Cheese Mozzarella or cheddar can be used if preferred.
½ whole Tomato Freshness and juiciness are key.
1 pinch Kosher Salt Table salt is fine but use less.
1 pinch Black Pepper Adjust according to your taste.
1 tablespoon Balsamic Glaze A mix of balsamic vinegar and honey serves as a good substitute.

For the Coleslaw

1 cup Coleslaw Mixture Pickled vegetables can be a delightful alternative.
2 tablespoons Caesar Dressing Ranch or vinaigrette are good swaps.

For the Pesto Butter

2 tablespoons Pesto Sun-dried tomato spread can be used for a different twist.
4 tablespoons Butter Margarine or oil can also work well.
2 tablespoons Chopped Parsley Adds a fresh finish; feel free to omit if desired.

Equipment

Air fryer
Oven
Mixing bowl

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Ciabatta: Slice the ciabatta loaf in half horizontally, ensuring an even cut for a perfect sandwich.
Pesto Butter Spread: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with the pesto, creating a rich spread. Apply this on both cut sides of the ciabatta halves and toast in an air fryer or oven at 375°F for about 5-7 minutes.
Layer Ingredients: On one half of the toasted ciabatta, layer the cooked ham, spicy salami, and pancetta. Add tomato slices and sprinkle kosher salt.
Melt the Cheese: Top with Monterey Jack cheese and return to the air fryer or oven at 375°F for another 3-5 minutes until cheese is melted.
Finish the Sandwich: Sprinkle black pepper over the cheese. Add coleslaw and close the sandwich. Slice and serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sandwichCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 1200mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use fresh ciabatta for its structure; layer denser ingredients first for stability. Store coleslaw separately to maintain crunch. Use an air fryer for reheating to keep bread crispy.

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