If you are craving a sandwich that bursts with fresh, vibrant flavors while being delightfully easy to whip up, you have to try this Easy Turkey Basil Pesto Panini Recipe. Imagine the richness of fontina cheese melting perfectly into herbaceous basil pesto, juicy slices of turkey and tomatoes, all embraced by crispy golden sourdough bread. It’s truly a delicious, fuss-free meal that elevates your regular lunch or dinner with minimal effort but maximum taste. This panini strikes the perfect balance between savory, fresh, and comforting, making it a sure favorite to have on repeat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to creating the delicious layers of flavor and texture that make this panini so irresistible. Each ingredient plays a vital role — from the creamy, nutty fontina cheese to the fragrant basil pesto, and the hearty turkey that adds satisfying protein and heartiness.
- 8 pieces sourdough bread: Provides a sturdy yet crispy base that holds everything together beautifully while giving a slight tang.
- 1 cup pesto: Bursting with basil, garlic, and Parmesan, it adds that unmistakable herby and savory punch.
- 1/2 pound fontina cheese, sliced: Melts effortlessly with a delicate nuttiness that complements the pesto perfectly.
- 1 1/2 pounds turkey, sliced: A lean, tender protein that brings savory depth and substance to the sandwich.
- 2 Roma tomatoes, sliced: Juicy and slightly sweet, adding fresh brightness and moisture.
- Olive oil: For brushing and crisping the bread to golden perfection while adding richness.
How to Make Easy Turkey Basil Pesto Panini Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Bread and Spread Pesto
Start by laying the sourdough slices flat on your workspace. Generously spread pesto over each slice — this will be the flavor foundation, infusing each bite with fresh basil goodness. Don’t skimp here; a good spread ensures every mouthful is packed with taste.
Step 2: Add the Fontina Cheese
Next, divide the sliced fontina cheese evenly across the pesto-covered bread. The fontina will melt beautifully under heat, creating a creamy, gooey layer that binds the ingredients. Once topped, set aside four slices; these will become the sandwich bottoms.
Step 3: Layer Turkey Slices
Now, pile the turkey slices on top of the cheese-covered slices. This lean meat adds heft to the panini, making it wonderfully filling without overpowering the other flavors.
Step 4: Add Tomato Slices
Place the juicy tomato slices evenly over the turkey. They introduce a fresh, slightly tangy element that balances the richness of the cheese and pesto perfectly.
Step 5: Assemble and Oil the Sandwich
Top the tomato layers with the remaining bread slices, pesto side down, and press lightly to hold everything together. Then, brush both sides of each sandwich with olive oil — this step is crucial for that irresistible golden crust and enhances the bread’s natural flavor.
Step 6: Grill to Golden Perfection
Cook the sandwiches on medium-high heat using a grill pan, panini press, or skillet until the bread is beautifully toasted and the cheese is bubbling and melted. This usually takes just a few minutes per side. Once cooked, slice each panini in half for easy handling and serving.
How to Serve Easy Turkey Basil Pesto Panini Recipe
Garnishes
A light sprinkle of fresh basil leaves or a few cracked black peppercorns on top of the panini just before serving can add a lovely fresh aroma and an extra pop of flavor. Don’t be shy about a quick drizzle of balsamic glaze to elevate the dish’s vibrant colors and taste.
Side Dishes
This panini pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette or a simple cup of tomato basil soup for a comforting combo. Sweet potato fries or a handful of crunchy pickles are excellent accompaniments to add texture and contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the panini into small, bite-sized squares for a party platter, offering guests the chance to sample the tasty layers easily. You can also serve the panini open-faced on rustic wooden boards alongside colorful vegetable crudités to impress at casual gatherings or lunchtime dates.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover sandwiches tightly with plastic wrap or foil and place them in the fridge. For best texture and flavor, consume within 2 days to maintain the freshness of the turkey and prevent sogginess.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Easy Turkey Basil Pesto Panini Recipe on hand for a quick meal, freeze assembled but ungrilled sandwiches individually wrapped to avoid freezer burn. They can stay good for up to 1 month. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To revive your leftover or frozen panini, reheat in a skillet or sandwich press over medium heat until the cheese melts and the bread crisps up again. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the bread soggy and the texture less appealing.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese if I don’t have fontina?
Absolutely! Mozzarella, provolone, or even Swiss cheese work wonderfully as alternatives, each bringing their own unique creamy melt and flavor.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the turkey and add more tomato slices, roasted vegetables, or even grilled mushrooms to keep the sandwich hearty and delicious.
What type of bread works best for this panini?
Sourdough is ideal due to its texture and tangy flavor, but ciabatta or a crusty baguette are also great choices for a sturdy, crispy sandwich.
Can I prepare this sandwich without a panini press?
Definitely. Use a grill pan, skillet, or even a regular frying pan. Press down gently with a spatula or a heavy pan to mimic the panini press effect.
How can I make the sandwich less oily?
Brush the bread lightly with olive oil rather than drenching it. Alternatively, you can use a cooking spray or omit the oil and toast the bread dry for a lighter version.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Turkey Basil Pesto Panini Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to make an unforgettable meal. Its beautiful combination of fresh basil pesto, melty cheese, and tender turkey wrapped in crispy sourdough is comfort food at its best. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe as much as I do — it’s sure to become a staple in your sandwich rotation.
Print
Easy Turkey Basil Pesto Panini Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Turkey Basil Pesto Panini is a quick and delicious sandwich featuring layers of savory turkey, creamy fontina cheese, fresh tomato slices, and fragrant basil pesto, all pressed between crispy sourdough bread. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or light dinner, this panini combines fresh ingredients and simple preparation for a flavorful meal ready in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Sandwich Ingredients
- 8 pieces sourdough bread
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 1/2 pound fontina cheese, sliced
- 1 1/2 pounds turkey, sliced
- 2 Roma tomatoes, sliced
- Olive oil, for brushing
Instructions
- Prepare the bread and spread pesto: Lay the sourdough bread slices flat on a clean surface. Spread a generous amount of basil pesto on each slice to infuse the bread with flavor.
- Add the cheese: Evenly divide the sliced fontina cheese among the bread slices, placing the cheese directly on top of the pesto. Set aside four of these prepared slices.
- Layer the turkey: Distribute the sliced turkey evenly over the cheese on the four set-aside slices, ensuring each one is well covered.
- Add tomato slices: Place the sliced Roma tomatoes over the turkey to add freshness and juiciness to the panini.
- Assemble the sandwiches: Top each of the prepared open-faced sandwiches with the remaining pesto-spread bread slices. Lightly press down on the sandwiches to help them stick together.
- Brush with olive oil: Brush both sides of each sandwich with olive oil to promote golden browning during cooking.
- Grill the paninis: Heat a panini press, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Grill or toast the sandwiches until the bread turns golden brown and the fontina cheese melts, about 3-5 minutes per side if not using a press.
- Serve: Remove the paninis from heat and slice each sandwich in half. Serve warm and enjoy the melty, savory flavors.
Notes
- You can substitute sourdough bread with ciabatta or baguette slices for variation.
- If you don’t have a panini press, use a heavy skillet or cast iron pan and press down with another pan or foil-wrapped brick.
- For an extra crunch, add fresh spinach or arugula inside the sandwich before grilling.
- Store leftovers wrapped in foil and reheat in a panini press or oven to maintain crispiness.
