Turkey, Fresh Basil Pesto & Provolone Sandwich

Makes 1 Sandwich

The Schar Artisan Baker Multigrain bread is the most delicious vehicle for all these gorgeous ingredients. Deli turkey, crisp slices of tomato, the peppery bite of  arugula, fresh and zingy basil pesto and melty, ooey gooey provolone cheese. This sandwich will have you impressing yourself! With Artisan Baker Multigrain and White breads, you can have deli taste, right at home.

Ingredients

2 slices of Schar Artisan Baker Multigrain Bread

butter, softened to room temperature

1-2 slices of provolone cheese, depending on thickness

3-4 slices of deli turkey, depending on thickness (we used Boars Head brand)

2 slices of ripened tomato

small handful of arugula salad leaves

bit of fresh basil pesto *recipe follows

Steps

1.     Butter one side of each slice of bread with a bit of the softened butter.

2.     Add the provolone cheese to one slice of bread on the unbuttered side.

3.     In a medium sized skillet on medium high heat, grill the slices of bread, buttered side down for a few minutes to get some color on the bread. Once golden brown, remove the slice of bread without the cheese and place on a cutting board or plate.

4.     Flip the piece of bread with the cheese so it is cheese side down and cook for about 30 seconds to get a bit of color on the cheese. Once golden brown, remove from pan.

5.      Spread a bit of the fresh basil pesto on the naked slice of bread on the unbuttered side.

6.     Layer the turkey slices on top of the fresh basil pesto. Layer on the tomato slices and a bit of arugula.

7.     To finish spread a bit more pesto on top of the provolone cheese and combine the two halves to form your sandwich.

8.     Slice in half and serve immediately.

Fresh Basil Pesto

Makes about ¾ Cup total

I love a quick and fresh pesto, especially when I have so much basil to use up from our garden in the summer months. What I love about this one is you really can customize it to your tastes; use less garlic if you want, add some parmesan cheese, pine nuts or lemon juice if you like etc. This is a nut free, dairy free version of the traditional basil pesto sauce we all know and love. We often think Pesto is just reserved for a pasta or gnocchi dish, but it’s absolutely fantastic used as a sandwich spread and even a marinade. The possibilities are endless and once you see how quick and how delicious this pesto recipe it, I know you will be making this time and time again. Try to use the freshest ingredients as you can! Happy cooking everyone.

Ingredients

1 large handful of fresh basil leaves, stems removed

1 medium ripe tomato, roughly chopped (1/2 cup roughly)

2 teaspoons minced garlic (1-2 cloves)

¼ cup extra virgin olive oil,

salt and pepper to taste

Steps

1.     Place all the ingredients in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth and well mixed.

2.     Taste and season with more salt and pepper if desired.

3.     Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until needed.