Mortadella, Burrata and Pesto Focaccia Sandwich
There’s something truly special about a well-crafted sandwich, and when you combine the rich flavors of mortadella, creamy burrata, and vibrant pesto, nestled between layers of soft focaccia, you create a culinary experience that is both comforting and indulgent. The Mortadella, Burrata and Pesto Focaccia Sandwich is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that will transport you to an Italian café with every bite. This sandwich is perfect for a leisurely lunch, a picnic, or even a casual dinner. Let’s dive into why this sandwich deserves a spot on your table.
Reasons to Love Mortadella, Burrata and Pesto Focaccia Sandwich
The allure of the Mortadella, Burrata and Pesto Focaccia Sandwich lies in its harmonious blend of ingredients. Here are a few reasons to love it:
- Flavor Explosion: The savory notes of mortadella paired with the creaminess of burrata and the aromatic basil in pesto create a symphony of flavors.
- Textural Delight: Each bite offers a contrast between the crusty focaccia and the luscious fillings, making it satisfying to eat.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand, making it versatile for any occasion.
- Quick to Assemble: This sandwich comes together in a matter of minutes, perfect for those busy days when you need a delicious meal without the fuss.
- Perfect for Sharing: Cut it into smaller pieces for a delightful appetizer or serve it whole for a hearty main dish.
Your Shopping Guide
Before you get started on this culinary adventure, here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- 1 focaccia bread – Choose a freshly baked loaf if possible for the best flavor and texture.
- 10 slices of mortadella – Look for high-quality mortadella, preferably from a deli.
- 2 mozzarella burrata – This cheese adds a rich creaminess that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
- 3 tablespoons of pesto – Store-bought or homemade, pesto adds a vibrant green flavor to the sandwich.
- 1 large tomato, sliced – Fresh tomatoes bring juiciness and a hint of acidity.
- Arugula – This peppery green adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the cheese and meat.
- Balsamic cream – For drizzling, this adds a sweet tang that enhances all the flavors.
- Extra virgin olive oil – A drizzle of quality oil elevates the sandwich.
- Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning to taste.
Gear Checklist
Before you start assembling your sandwich, make sure you have the following tools:
- Sharp knife – For slicing the focaccia and tomatoes with ease.
- Cutting board – A clean surface to prepare your ingredients.
- Spreader – To apply the pesto evenly on the focaccia.
- Serving platter – To display your delicious creation.
- Measuring spoons – For accurate measurement of pesto and balsamic cream.
Mortadella, Burrata and Pesto Focaccia Sandwich Made Stepwise
Creating this sandwich is as easy as it is delicious. Follow these simple steps to assemble your Mortadella, Burrata and Pesto Focaccia Sandwich:
Step 1: Prepare the Focaccia
Begin by slicing your focaccia bread horizontally. If you want a more rustic look, you can also tear it apart, but a clean slice will make for easier assembly.
Step 2: Spread the Pesto
Using a spreader, generously apply the pesto to the cut sides of the focaccia. Don’t be shy—this is where the flavor starts!
Step 3: Layer the Mortadella
Start layering the mortadella slices on one side of the focaccia. Overlap them slightly for a beautiful presentation and to ensure every bite has that delicious meat.
Step 4: Add the Burrata
Next, gently tear open the burrata and place it on top of the mortadella. The creamy interior should ooze slightly, adding to the sandwich’s richness.
Step 5: Add Fresh Ingredients
Place the sliced tomatoes on top of the burrata, followed by a handful of fresh arugula. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
Step 6: Drizzle with Balsamic Cream
For that extra touch, drizzle some balsamic cream over the arugula. The sweetness will complement the savory elements beautifully.
Step 7: Close and Serve
Finally, place the top half of the focaccia back on and press down gently. Slice the sandwich into portions and serve immediately, drizzled with a bit of extra virgin olive oil if desired.
Fresh Takes Through the Year
The Mortadella, Burrata and Pesto Focaccia Sandwich is versatile and can be enjoyed year-round with a few seasonal tweaks:
- Spring: Add thinly sliced radishes for a crunchy bite.
- Summer: Swap in heirloom tomatoes for a burst of vibrant color and flavor.
- Fall: Incorporate roasted butternut squash for sweetness and warmth.
- Winter: Mix in some sautéed spinach or kale for added nutrition and flavor.
Mistakes Even Pros Make
Even seasoned chefs can have mishaps in the kitchen. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making your sandwich:
- Overloading the sandwich – While it can be tempting to add too many ingredients, a manageable amount allows for better flavor balance and easier eating.
- Using stale bread – Fresh focaccia is key to a delicious sandwich; staleness can ruin the experience.
- Forgetting to season – A pinch of salt and pepper can elevate the flavors significantly; don’t skip this step!
- Assembling too early – If you have to prepare ahead of time, keep the components separate until serving to prevent sogginess.
Cooling, Storing & Rewarming
If you find yourself with leftovers or want to prepare in advance, here’s how to handle your Mortadella, Burrata and Pesto Focaccia Sandwich:
- Cooling: Let the sandwich cool to room temperature before storing to prevent condensation.
- Storing: Wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume within 2 days for the best quality.
- Rewarming: If you prefer a warm sandwich, reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melty.
Mortadella, Burrata and Pesto Focaccia Sandwich FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread for this sandwich?
Absolutely! While focaccia is traditional, you can use ciabatta, baguette, or even whole grain bread based on your preference.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to mortadella?
You can replace mortadella with a variety of roasted vegetables, marinated artichokes, or even a hearty slice of grilled eggplant for a delicious vegetarian option.
How do I make homemade pesto?
To make homemade pesto, blend fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until smooth. Adjust to taste with salt and pepper.
Can I prepare this sandwich in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the components in advance. Just keep the ingredients separate and assemble the sandwich just before serving to maintain freshness.
Try These Next
If you love the Mortadella, Burrata and Pesto Focaccia Sandwich, try these delicious options:
- Avocado Toast with a Twist
- Classic Pesto Pasta Salad
- Mediterranean Vegetable Sandwich
- Italian Sub Sandwich
Ready to Cook?
Your journey to making the perfect Mortadella, Burrata and Pesto Focaccia Sandwich is about to begin. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the delightful flavors that come together in this sandwich. Whether you’re preparing it for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to indulge in a sandwich that’s bursting with flavor and made with love. Enjoy every bite!
Mortadella, Burrata and Pesto Focaccia Sandwich
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by slicing your focaccia bread horizontally. A clean slice will make for easier assembly.
- Using a spreader, generously apply the pesto to the cut sides of the focaccia.
- Start layering the mortadella slices on one side of the focaccia, overlapping them slightly.
- Gently tear open the burrata and place it on top of the mortadella.
- Place the sliced tomatoes on top of the burrata, followed by a handful of fresh arugula. Season with salt and pepper.
- Drizzle some balsamic cream over the arugula.
- Place the top half of the focaccia back on and press down gently. Slice the sandwich into portions and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a crunchier texture, consider adding thinly sliced radishes in spring.
- Use heirloom tomatoes in the summer for added flavor.
- Wrap leftovers tightly and store in the fridge, best consumed within 2 days.
