Description
This Focaccia Grinder Sandwich combines the hearty flavors of Trader Joe’s roasted tomato and Parmesan focaccia with layers of uncured calabrese salame, capocollo, Provolone cheese, and a fresh, zesty salad topping. Toasted to perfection in the oven, this sandwich delivers a juicy, crispy, and satisfying meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread & Condiments
- 1 loaf of focaccia (Trader Joe’s focaccia with roasted tomato and Parmesan recommended)
- 1/4 cup pesto (refrigerated, from Trader Joe’s)
- 1/4 cup mayo (optional)
Meats & Cheese
- 2 ounces uncured calabrese salame (8 slices)
- 2 ounces uncured capocollo (8 slices)
- 4 large slices Provolone cheese
Salad Topping
- 1 head romaine lettuce, shredded (2-3 cups)
- 1/4 of a red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoncini
- 1/4 to 1/3 cup Italian dressing
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for toasting the sandwich.
- Slice Focaccia: Using a serrated knife, carefully slice the focaccia horizontally in half while keeping it flat to prevent toppings from falling off. Set the top half aside.
- Layer Sandwich: Spread the pesto evenly over the bottom half of the focaccia. Then, layer the salame, capocollo, and Provolone cheese evenly on top.
- Toast Sandwich: Place the bottom half with toppings in the oven and toast for 6 to 8 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt slightly. Keep the top half of the bread to the side so it does not stick to the melted cheese yet.
- Toss and Layer Greens: In a bowl, combine shredded romaine lettuce, thinly sliced red onion, sliced pepperoncini, Italian dressing, and dried oregano. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Once toasted, pile this salad mixture on top of the melted cheese layer on the bread.
- Finish: Dollop mayo over the salad layer if desired. Press the top half of the focaccia onto the sandwich, then cut into wedges and serve immediately for a juicy, crispy, and flavorful sandwich experience.
Notes
- Use a serrated knife to slice the focaccia to prevent squishing the bread and to keep the loaf intact.
- Trader Joe’s roasted tomato and Parmesan focaccia adds a distinct flavor but you can substitute with any flavorful focaccia.
- Adding mayo is optional, but it adds creaminess and moisture to the sandwich.
- Adjust the amount of Italian dressing in the salad topping to your taste preference.
- Serve the sandwich warm immediately after toasting for the best texture and flavor.
