A Turkey Pesto Panini Sandwich is the a delicious and easy lunch that’s impressive for company.  Trust me, this will be your new favorite sandwich this summer!

I just adore making my own basil pesto at home. In the summer, when we grow our own basil, I almost always have a jar in the refrigerator. You can get my favorite recipe for Basil Pesto here.  You could also try my Tarragon Walnut Pesto for something different.

You can use a store-bought pesto, but in my humble opinion, it’s just not the same as homemade. As for the other ingredients, I enjoy fresh mozzarella and a slow roasted turkey.  You can get the turkey from the deli, but leftovers from a roasted turkey is phenomenal.  This is one of those cases where quality ingredients make a big difference in the sandwich itself.

When you’re making a panini sandwich, you need to start with a hearty bread. It needs to hold up to being pressed so I like using a ciabatta or focaccia bread.  Regular sandwich bread is too light and airy and won’t hold up to the panini press.

Here’s how to make a delicious Turkey Pesto Panini

Ingredients

• Sliced roasted turkey breast
• White or whole wheat ciabatta bread, sliced
• Fresh mozzarella, sliced
• Store-bought or homemade Basil Pesto
• Tomato slices, optional
• Salt and Pepper, to taste
• Olive oil

Directions

1. Preheat your panini press according instructions from the manufacturer.
2. To make one sandwich, spread two slices of the bread with 1 tablespoon of the Basil Pesto.  Next, layer on 2-3 slices of turkey.  Top with mozzarella slices, and, if desired, tomato slices.  Top with the second slice of bread. Gently brush the outside slices of bread with a little olive oil.
3. Repeat for additional sandwiches.
4. To grill on the panini press, add the sandwich to the preheated press and and close.  Cook 4-5 minutes until golden brown.  Serve hot.

This Turkey Pesto Panini is a delicious summer sandwich. Mr. Juggling Act prefers his with fresh summer tomatoes. Either way, this is one tasty sandwich!

Other Yummy Sandwich Recipes