Name: Focaccia Sandwich Delight: Turkey and Mozzarella Magic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 loaf Rosemary Focaccia Bread (Store-bought or homemade); 1 cup Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto (Made in advance); 8 oz Shaved Deli Turkey (Grilled chicken or meatless option can be substituted); 8 oz Fresh Mozzarella Cheese (Substitute with provolone or goat cheese if desired); 1 cup Ripe Tomatoes (Any variety can be used); 1 cup Arugula or Mixed Greens (Spinach can be used as a substitute)

There’s nothing quite like the scent of freshly baked focaccia wafting through the kitchen, beckoning you to create something truly indulgent. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for a Turkey and Mozzarella Focaccia Sandwich with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto—a dish that’s not only a cinch to whip up but also fully customizable to suit your cravings. This heartwarming sandwich brings layers of tender turkey, creamy mozzarella, and vibrant, juicy tomatoes together between two fragrant slices of rosemary focaccia. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch option or a delightful dinner that will impress your family and friends, this nourishing sandwich hits all the right notes. So, how about we dive into making this culinary delight together?

Why Is This Focaccia Sandwich a Must-Try?

Unforgettable Flavor: This sandwich is bursting with the robust taste of sun-dried tomato pesto, perfectly complementing the tender turkey and creamy mozzarella.

Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite proteins or cheeses; it’s all about making it your own!

Quick Prep: With simple ingredients and minimal steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous lunch cravings.

Comfort Food Classic: Combining hearty fillings with soft, fragrant rosemary focaccia, it embodies everything you love about satisfying comfort food.

Perfect Pairing: Serve it alongside a warm bowl of creamy tomato bisque soup for an unforgettable meal. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it becomes a favorite!

Focaccia Sandwich Ingredients

For the Bread

Rosemary Focaccia Bread – The fragrant base of this focaccia sandwich; you can use store-bought focaccia or ciabatta for convenience.

For the Pesto

Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto – Adds bold, sweet, and tangy flavor; can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 1 week.

For the Fillings

Shaved Deli Turkey – Provides hearty protein; feel free to substitute with grilled chicken or a meatless option if desired.
Fresh Mozzarella Cheese – Offers creaminess and richness; alternatives include provolone or goat cheese for a different twist.
Ripe Tomatoes – Adds freshness and juiciness; use any variety you love, or throw in extra for added flavor.
Arugula or Mixed Greens – Brings crispness and nutrition to the sandwich; spinach works well as a substitute or use any preferred greens.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Turkey and Mozzarella Focaccia Sandwich with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto

Step 1: Prepare the Pesto
Start by making your sun-dried tomato pesto by combining sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, nuts, cheese, and olive oil in a food processor. Pulse until you achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency, typically around 1-2 minutes. This vibrant pesto can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week, so feel free to prepare it ahead of time.

Step 2: Slice the Focaccia
Once your pesto is ready, grab your rosemary focaccia bread and slice it in half horizontally. Make sure to cut it evenly to create a nice top and bottom for your sandwich. Lay both halves cut-side up on a clean, flat surface; you’ll want that fragrant, fresh bread exposed for the next delicious steps.

Step 3: Spread the Pesto
Take your prepared sun-dried tomato pesto and generously spread a layer on the bottom half of the focaccia. Make sure to cover it entirely, as this will infuse your focaccia sandwich with robust flavors. The pesto’s bright color and aroma should already get your taste buds excited!

Step 4: Layer the Fillings
Now, it’s time to build your turkey and mozzarella focaccia sandwich! Start by layering fresh arugula or mixed greens on top of the pesto, followed by slices of ripe tomatoes for that juicy touch. Add on the creamy slices of fresh mozzarella, then top it off with a generous amount of shaved deli turkey, ensuring an even distribution.

Step 5: Complete the Sandwich
Once all the fillings are in place, carefully place the top half of the focaccia onto the layered ingredients. Gently press down to help the sandwich hold together, enhancing the melding of flavors. You can cut the sandwich into portions right now or leave it whole to slice just before serving.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
After assembling your Turkey and Mozzarella Focaccia Sandwich, it’s best enjoyed right away. If you’ve made it ahead of time, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften before serving. Pair it with a warm bowl of tomato bisque for a satisfying meal that is sure to delight!

What to Serve with Turkey and Mozzarella Focaccia Sandwich

There’s nothing like enhancing a cozy meal with delightful sides to elevate your dining experience.

Creamy Tomato Bisque: This rich, velvety soup perfectly complements the sandwich’s flavors, providing a warm, comforting pairing that everyone loves. It’s the ultimate companion on a chilly day!
Arugula Salad: A bright, peppery mix of arugula with cherry tomatoes and a light vinaigrette adds a fresh crunch, balancing the richness of the focaccia sandwich wonderfully.
Potato Wedges: Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these flavorful wedges can be seasoned your way, creating a satisfying contrast with the soft sandwich.
Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles or a medley of pickled veggies can cut through the sandwich’s richness, offering a zesty bite that lingers long after each mouthful.
Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness of these fries adds an enjoyable contrast to the savory turkey and mozzarella, making every bite feel indulgent yet wholesome.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing beverage option, sparkling water with a hint of lemon cleanses the palate between bites, enhancing the overall meal enjoyment.
Dark Chocolate Squares: For a simple dessert, pair with rich dark chocolate squares; the bittersweet chocolate makes for a lovely finish to your meal, tantalizing your taste buds sweetly.

Make Ahead Options

These Turkey and Mozzarella Focaccia Sandwiches are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the sun-dried tomato pesto up to 1 week in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh. For an even quicker meal prep, slice the focaccia and layer the fillings (turkey, mozzarella, arugula, and tomatoes) on the bottom half, then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply place the top half on, let the assembled sandwich sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften, and enjoy a delightful, ready-to-go meal that’s just as delicious!

How to Store and Freeze Focaccia Sandwich

Refrigeration: Store the focaccia sandwich wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil; it can last up to 1 day in the fridge without becoming soggy.

Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the assembled sandwich by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Thawing: To enjoy a frozen focaccia sandwich, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and allow it to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving to soften the bread.

Reheating: If you’d like a warm sandwich, heat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, ensuring the cheese melts and the sandwich is heated through.

Expert Tips for the Best Focaccia Sandwich

Make-Ahead Pesto: Prepare your sun-dried tomato pesto a day in advance for flavors to fully develop. Store it tightly sealed in the fridge to keep it fresh.
Avoid Sogginess: Assemble your focaccia sandwich just before serving to prevent the bread from getting soggy. If making ahead, store the elements separately.
Room Temperature Magic: If you pre-assemble the sandwich, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. This softens the bread and enhances the overall texture.
Layer Mindfully: Ensure even distribution of fillings when layering; this way, each bite of your focaccia sandwich boasts all the delicious flavors and textures you love.
Customize Joyfully: Don’t hesitate to swap additions! Use your choice of proteins or cheeses; making this sandwich your own will elevate your enjoyment.

Focaccia Sandwich Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine as you customize this delicious focaccia sandwich to suit your tastes!

Dairy-Free: Substitute fresh mozzarella with a dairy-free cheese option for a delightful, creamy consistency without the lactose.
Protein Swap: Replace shaved turkey with grilled chicken, roast beef, or a hearty plant-based alternative like chickpea salad for a fresh twist.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha on the layers to bring some heat and excitement to your sandwich.
Flavor Boost: Swap the sun-dried tomato pesto for a punchy romesco sauce or vibrant green basil pesto for a different flavor profile.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or cilantro into the sandwich for an aromatic touch that enhances the taste of each bite.
Vegetable Medley: Layer in additional veggies like roasted red peppers, cucumbers, or even pickles for crunch and added freshness.
Avocado Creaminess: Add slices of ripe avocado or a smear of avocado spread to bring a rich, buttery element to your sandwich.
Grainy Delight: Try using a ciabatta or whole-grain bread instead of focaccia for a heartier texture and additional nutritional value.

These variations allow you to personalize your focaccia sandwich to make it uniquely yours! When you’re ready to explore more delicious bread recipes, check out our Garlic Rosemary Focaccia, or if you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, our Cinnamon Focaccia Brown is a delightful option!

Focaccia Sandwich Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe tomatoes for my focaccia sandwich?
Absolutely! Look for tomatoes that are firm but yield slightly to gentle pressure. They should have a deep, vibrant color and a fresh aroma. Avoid any with dark spots or blemishes. Additionally, heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes often offer the best flavor and juiciness for your sandwich.

How should I store my turkey and mozzarella focaccia sandwich?
Very good question! To enjoy your focaccia sandwich at its best, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. This way, it stays fresh for up to 1 day. If you prefer to store it for longer, consider freezing it instead, which can preserve its deliciousness for up to 3 months!

Can I freeze the assembled focaccia sandwich? If so, how?
Certainly! To freeze your focaccia sandwich, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, then cover it with aluminum foil. This double layer keeps it fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and allow it to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes so that the texture softens before serving.

What if my sandwich ingredients start to make the bread soggy?
For sure—it’s a common issue! To prevent sogginess, I recommend assembling your sandwich just before serving. If you have to prepare it in advance, you can keep the pesto and fillings separate from the bread until you’re ready to enjoy. If the sandwich has become soggy while stored, give it time to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving—it may help restore some texture.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, be mindful that this recipe includes dairy (mozzarella cheese) and nuts (if your pesto contains pine nuts or walnuts). You can easily substitute the cheese with a dairy-free alternative and select nuts based on dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, opt for gluten-free bread to keep the comfort intact without any health concerns!