It is this serene image that inspired me to create the Prosciutto Cheese Olive Sandwiches, a recipe that captures the essence of Italian leisure and the joy of a meal crafted with love. This sandwich is a symphony of flavors, each ingredient a soloist performing in perfect harmony.
The desire to recreate the magic of Italian afternoons spent laughing with friends was the spark that led to this creation. The saltiness of the prosciutto, the creamy indulgence of the cheese, and the piquant surprise of olives come together to form a medley that is both grounding and uplifting. It’s a sandwich that speaks to the soul’s longing for connection and the palate’s craving for depth.
In crafting this sandwich, I sought to encapsulate the feeling of warmth that comes from sharing food made with intention. Whether it’s a quick lunch amidst a busy day or a leisurely weekend treat, the Prosciutto Cheese Olive Sandwich is my ode to the moments that we pause to truly savor life. So let us celebrate the beauty of simplicity and the art of combining flavors as we explore the rustic elegance of Prosciutto Cheese Olive Sandwiches, a dish that is as much about the experience as it is about the taste.
Prosciutto Cheese Olive Sandwiches Recipe
Prosciutto Cheese Olive Sandwiches
Equipment
- 1 bowl
Ingredients
- 1 large plum tomato seeded and chopped
- 3 tablespoons black olive paste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
- 1 lb. fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 4 cups trimmed arugula chopped coarsely
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 Parmesan Focaccia halved horizontally
- 1/2 pound thinly sliced prosciutto
Instructions
- In a bowl stir together basil, olive paste and tomato.
- Add mozzarella and arugula in another bowl then toss with pepper, salt and oil to taste.
- Spread your olive mixture on top of the focaccia. Top olive mixture with arugula, prosciutto, mozzarella and remaining focaccia half.
- Apply light pressure then slice lengthwise in half, then again crosswise to create 6 small sandwiches.
- Cut sandwiches diagonally in half and wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
- Chill sandwiches at least 1 hour and up to 1 day. Enjoy!
Video
How to make Prosciutto Cheese Olive Sandwiches using grill
The Prosciutto Cheese Olive Sandwich is a symphony of flavors that sings of lazy afternoons and the simple pleasures of life. Imagine the smoky whispers of the grill as it kisses the bread, the salty-sweet notes of prosciutto harmonizing with the creamy cheese, and the olives adding their own earthy melody. This sandwich is my ode to the effortless joy of outdoor dining, where each ingredient is a soloist in a delectable ensemble.
To make this, I gently grill slices of artisan bread to golden perfection, layer on the finest prosciutto, and crown it with slices of sumptuous cheese that melt into heavenly goodness. A scattering of olives brings a touch of Mediterranean whimsy. It’s a quick escape to a rustic Italian countryside, right in your own backyard. This sandwich isn’t just food; it’s a moment of pure, unadulterated bliss.
Tips for making Prosciutto Cheese Olive Sandwiches
Cooking Tips
This sandwich is a symphony of flavors, where the saltiness of prosciutto dances with the creaminess of cheese and the briny pop of olives. It’s a combination that whispers tales of Mediterranean coasts and leisurely lunches under the sun.
When I think of crafting this sandwich, I envision the delicate balance needed to harmonize its bold components. The prosciutto must be thinly sliced, draped almost tenderly atop a bed of soft, yielding cheese. The choice of cheese is a personal affair; whether it’s the smooth embrace of mozzarella or the sharp wit of provolone, it should complement the prosciutto without overpowering it. The olives, meanwhile, are like the final brushstroke on a painting, offering a burst of flavor that ties everything together.
Assembling a Prosciutto Cheese Olive Sandwich is an act of love—a gentle layering of ingredients, each one selected with care. The bread, lightly toasted, serves as the foundation, its crispness giving way to the rich, savory filling. It’s a culinary experience that’s both humble and indulgent, perfect for those moments when you crave a touch of elegance in your day.
In sharing these cooking tips, I do so with the warmth of someone who has found joy in the simple pleasure of a well-made sandwich. It’s my hope that in your own kitchen, you’ll feel the same sense of contentment as you layer each ingredient, savoring the anticipation of that first, perfect bite.
Serving suggestions
The Prosciutto Cheese Olive Sandwich is a symphony of flavors that sings of lazy afternoons in the Mediterranean sun. It’s a simple yet sophisticated offering that can elevate any gathering or add a touch of elegance to a quiet afternoon at home. The saltiness of the prosciutto, paired with the creamy texture of cheese and the briny pop of olives, creates a harmony that dances on the palate.
When considering how to serve this delightful sandwich, I’m drawn to the idea of a rustic, communal setting where each element can be appreciated. Picture a wooden board laid out with these sandwiches, cut into delicate halves, revealing the layered beauty within. Accompanying this centerpiece, imagine a spread of marinated artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, and perhaps a scattering of roasted nuts, inviting guests to create their own perfect bite.
For a more personal touch, serving these sandwiches alongside a fresh arugula salad, lightly dressed with olive oil and lemon, can offer a refreshing counterpoint to the rich flavors. A glass of crisp white wine or a light, sparkling beverage could provide the perfect sip to cleanse the palate between bites.
In moments of solitude, the Prosciutto Cheese Olive Sandwich becomes a luxurious treat to be savored. Paired with a few slices of ripe pear or figs, it can transform a simple lunch into an indulgent escape. The key is to embrace the simplicity and quality of the ingredients, allowing the natural flavors to shine through and create a moment of pure enjoyment.
Top 5 FAQs about Prosciutto Cheese Olive Sandwiches
- What type of bread is best for a Prosciutto Cheese Olive Sandwich? The choice of bread can significantly influence the overall taste and texture of the sandwich. A crusty baguette or ciabatta is often recommended for its ability to provide a satisfying crunch while sturdy enough to hold the fillings.
- Which cheeses pair well with prosciutto in a sandwich? Cheeses that are commonly paired with prosciutto include mozzarella for its mild and creamy texture, provolone for a bit of sharpness, or a slice of Parmigiano-Reggiano for an authentic Italian flavor. The key is to choose a cheese that complements rather than overpowers the delicate taste of prosciutto.
- How do you prevent the sandwich from becoming too salty? Prosciutto and olives both contribute a significant amount of saltiness to the sandwich. To balance this, one could use unsalted butter on the bread, choose a milder cheese, or include slices of fresh tomato or a leafy green like arugula to add freshness and cut through the salt.
- What type of olives work best in this sandwich? Both green and black olives can be used depending on personal preference. Green olives tend to be firmer and more bitter, while black olives are softer and have a richer flavor. Pitted Kalamata olives are a popular choice for their fruity, wine-like flavor that pairs well with prosciutto.
- Can Prosciutto Cheese Olive Sandwiches be made in advance? While these sandwiches can be pre-assembled, it’s best to enjoy them shortly after preparation to prevent the bread from becoming soggy due to the moisture from the tomato sauce, if used, and to maintain the crispness of the prosciutto. If needed, one can prepare the components in advance and assemble the sandwich just before serving.
In the realm of sandwiches, the Prosciutto Cheese Olive Sandwich stands as a testament to the art of simplicity and the power of quality ingredients. The conclusion of any meal featuring this sandwich is often marked by a contented sigh and a lingering savoriness on the palate. The delicate balance achieved between the salty prosciutto, the creamy cheese, and the piquant olives creates a symphony of flavors that is both sophisticated and immensely satisfying.
This sandwich doesn’t just end a meal; it invites reflection on the beauty of well-paired ingredients. It’s the kind of dish that, despite its apparent simplicity, can become the topic of conversation, inspiring debates about the best type of cheese or the perfect ripeness of olives to complement the cured ham. In essence, the Prosciutto Cheese Olive Sandwich is more than the sum of its parts—it’s a celebration of culinary harmony, a fitting finale to any gathering where food is not just nourishment, but a joyous occasion in itself.