Stanley Tucci’s Favourite Sandwich
Stanley Tucci’s Favourite Sandwich is a sophisticated Italian-inspired sandwich featuring crusty Italian bread layered with salty prosciutto, creamy fresh mozzarella, sweet roasted red peppers, and aromatic fresh basil, finished with olive oil and balsamic glaze. This simple yet elegant sandwich offers a perfect balance of rich, bold flavors and complementary textures, making lunchtime an unforgettable experience with its fresh, high-quality ingredients and versatile adaptability.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 sandwich
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Toasting
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free (with substitution)
Bread and Condiments
- Crusty Italian Bread (6 to 8 inch slices)
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil (for brushing)
- Balsamic Glaze (for drizzling)
- Sea Salt (to taste)
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper (to taste)
Fillings
- Prosciutto (thinly sliced, enough to cover bread surface)
- Fresh Mozzarella (sliced)
- Roasted Red Peppers (sweet, sliced)
- Fresh Basil Leaves (several sprigs)
- Prepare the Bread: Slice crusty Italian bread into generous lengths of about 6 to 8 inches and lightly toast it to create a crunchy exterior that maintains moisture and prevents sogginess.
- Drizzle Olive Oil: Generously brush the inner surfaces of the toasted bread with high-quality extra virgin olive oil to add richness and prevent drying.
- Layer the Prosciutto: Evenly place thin slices of prosciutto over one side of the bread, covering the entire surface to provide a perfect balance of salty, savory flavor in each bite.
- Add Fresh Mozzarella: Gently layer fresh mozzarella slices on top of the prosciutto, allowing its creamy texture to complement the meat’s saltiness.
- Add Roasted Red Peppers and Basil: Arrange sweet roasted red peppers over the mozzarella, then tuck fresh basil leaves between layers for a burst of aromatic freshness.
- Season and Finish: Sprinkle sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, then drizzle balsamic glaze over everything, adding acidity and sweetness that ties the sandwich together beautifully.
- Assemble and Serve: Close the sandwich gently, press it down lightly, and slice in half for serving. Enjoy immediately to savor the fresh and vibrant flavors.
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of bread and meats truly shine, so choose the freshest possible.
- Don’t Overload: Balance is key; layering just enough prosciutto and cheese prevents heaviness.
- Warm Bread Slightly: Toast the bread just right to help it hold together without becoming chewy.
- Season Thoughtfully: Lightly salt and pepper every layer to enhance natural flavors.
- Try a Pressed Version: Using a panini press adds a crispy exterior and slightly melted cheese for an elevated experience.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: Stanley Tucci sandwich, Italian sandwich, prosciutto sandwich, fresh mozzarella sandwich, roasted red pepper sandwich, basil sandwich, easy Italian recipe, gluten-free sandwich