Spicy Tuscan Ciabatta Recipe

Overview:

🍽️ Servings: 10
⏲️ Cook Time: 4 hours
⏲️ Prep Time: 10 minutes
⏲️ Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
📖 Recipe Category: Lunch/Snacks
🔑 Keywords: Meat, European, Thanksgiving, Brunch, No Cook

Description:

I served these bite-sized sandwiches as one of the appetizers for our Thanksgiving meal this year, and it went over VERY well. This is actually a variation of a recipe from Whole Foods, that came in a holiday appetizer flyer they had in the store. The possibilities for the types of cold cuts you use here are endless. Please feel free to try any combo you and your family might like. These three, plus the cheese, are my family’s favorites. The idea of this “pressed” type of sandwich also works well for picnics because it can be prepared in advance and placed at the bottom of the picnic cooler under the other foods.

Ingredients:

• 1 ciabatta loaf
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup mixed greens
• 1/4 cup salami
• 3 slices provolone cheese
• 4 slices roasted red peppers
• 3 slices sopressata
• 2 slices prosciutto
• Balsamic vinegar, for drizzling

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 124.2
• Fat Content: 10.9g
• Saturated Fat Content: 3.9g
• Cholesterol Content: 19.4mg
• Sodium Content: 424.3mg
• Carbohydrate Content: 1.3g
• Fiber Content: 0.1g
• Sugar Content: 0.6g
• Protein Content: 5.3g

Instructions:

1. Slice the Ciabatta Loaf Lengthwise:
   Start by slicing the ciabatta loaf lengthwise, creating a top and bottom piece.

2. Layer the Sandwich Ingredients:

   • Begin by drizzling the bottom slice of bread with extra virgin olive oil.
   • Next, evenly layer the mixed greens, salami, provolone cheese, roasted red peppers, sopressata, and prosciutto on top of the bread.
   • Finish by drizzling a bit of balsamic vinegar over the ingredients.

3. Ensure Even Distribution:
   Make sure each layer extends right to the ends of the bread. It’s even okay if they hang over a bit.

4. Wrap the Sandwich:
   Carefully wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic cling wrap, ensuring there are no openings.

5. Press the Sandwich:
   Place the wrapped sandwich on the counter and press down the entire loaf with a heavy cast-iron pan or a couple of large books. This pressing process helps meld the flavors together.

6. Let It Sit:
   Allow the sandwich to sit for at least 4 hours. This time allows the oil and vinegar to mingle with the other layers, enhancing the flavors.

7. Slice and Serve:
   After the pressing time is up, remove the plastic wrap. Using a very sharp bread knife, cut the sandwich into 2-inch squares or triangles. Secure each slice with a toothpick and serve.

These Spicy Tuscan Ciabatta sandwiches are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, picnic, or brunch. Enjoy the delicious flavors and the ease of preparation!