The Ultimate Gourmet Ciabatta Sandwich (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Bread and Meats
01 -
2 halve slices ciabatta bread
02 -
100 g cooked ham
03 -
100 g spicy salami
04 -
100 g pancetta
05 -
7 slices Monterey Jack cheese
→ Vegetables and Toppings
06 -
½ tomato, sliced
07 -
Kosher salt, to taste
08 -
Black pepper, freshly cracked
09 -
Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
→ Coleslaw Mixture
10 -
1 cup shredded cabbage
11 -
2 tablespoons Caesar dressing (homemade or store-bought)
→ Spread for Bread
12 -
2 tablespoons pesto
13 -
4 tablespoons butter, softened
14 -
2 tablespoons parsley, chopped
# Instructions:
01 -
Start with your ciabatta loaf and slice it horizontally to create two flat pieces that will form the top and bottom of your sandwich.
02 -
In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, pesto, and chopped parsley until well combined. This creates a rich, herbaceous spread that will add moisture and flavor to your sandwich.
03 -
Generously spread the pesto butter mixture on both cut sides of the ciabatta. Place the bread, spread side up, in your air fryer or under your oven's broiler. Toast until the edges turn golden and crispy while the butter melts into the bread.
04 -
While the bread is toasting, combine the shredded cabbage with the Caesar dressing in a bowl. Mix well to ensure the cabbage is evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
05 -
Once the bread is toasted, begin layering your meats on the bottom half - first the ham, then the spicy salami, followed by the pancetta. Top the meat stack with slices of fresh tomato and sprinkle with a pinch of kosher salt to enhance the tomato's natural flavor.
06 -
Arrange the Monterey Jack cheese slices over the tomatoes, then return the open-faced sandwich to the air fryer or under the broiler just until the cheese melts into a gooey, irresistible layer.
07 -
Remove the sandwich from the heat and crack some fresh black pepper over the melted cheese for a subtle kick. Drizzle a small amount of balsamic glaze over the top for a sweet-tangy finish.
08 -
Spoon your prepared coleslaw mixture over the melted cheese, then place the top half of the ciabatta on to complete your sandwich. Press gently to compact the layers, then slice in half if desired and serve immediately while still warm and at its most delicious.
# Notes:
01 -
This sandwich is perfect for customization - feel free to swap meats and cheeses based on your preference.
02 -
For a quicker version, you can use store-bought pesto instead of making the pesto butter.
03 -
The sandwich can be served warm or at room temperature, making it great for picnics or packed lunches.
04 -
For an extra kick, consider adding roasted red peppers or pickled jalapeños.