Easy Turkey Basil Pesto Panini

Name: Easy Turkey Basil Pesto Panini
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 slices ciabatta bread; 4 oz roasted turkey breast; 2 tbsp basil pesto; 2 slices mozzarella cheese; 1 cup fresh spinach leaves; 1 tbsp olive oil or butter

Published: July 30, 2025

by samuel cullingham

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Easy Turkey Basil Pesto Panini is quick to prepare and packed with flavor
Its vibrant colors make it an eye-catching addition to any meal
Customize it with your favorite ingredients for endless variations
Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a delightful snack whenever cravings hit!

I still remember the first time I made this panini for my family. Their eyes lit up at the first bite—definitely a proud chef moment!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ciabatta Bread: This bread’s crispy crust and chewy interior hold up beautifully against all those tasty fillings.
Roasted Turkey Breast: Use freshly sliced turkey for maximum flavor; deli slices work too but may not be as juicy.
Basil Pesto: Freshly made or store-bought; either way, it adds a fragrant and flavorful punch to your panini.
Sliced Mozzarella Cheese: Creamy mozzarella melts perfectly, creating that gooey texture we all crave in a panini.
Fresh Spinach Leaves: A handful of spinach adds color and nutrition without overpowering the other flavors.
Olive Oil or Butter: For grilling; it helps achieve that golden-brown crust everyone loves!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Workspace: Gather all your ingredients and tools—a grill pan or sandwich maker works best for this recipe. delicious veggie bake recipe Set everything within reach to streamline the process.

Preheat Your Panini Press or Grill Pan: Heat your press to medium-high or preheat your grill pan on medium heat. You want it hot enough to give that beautiful sear on your bread.

Assemble Your Panini : Lay out one slice of ciabatta on a clean surface. Spread a generous layer of basil pesto on top, followed by slices of roasted turkey and mozzarella cheese. Add fresh spinach leaves before topping with another slice of bread. For more inspiration, check out this baked pesto spinach turkey meatballs recipe.

Grill Until Golden Brown : Brush both sides of the assembled panini with olive oil or butter. Place it on your preheated press or grill pan and press down gently. Grill for about 3-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Check for Melty Goodness : Peek inside to see if the cheese has melted nicely—this is crucial! If needed, grill for an extra minute or two while keeping an eye on that perfect crust.

Slice & Serve!: Remove your Easy Turkey Basil Pesto Panini from the heat and let it rest for a minute before slicing in half. Serve warm and watch those smiles light up around you! For more inspiration, check out this oven baked barbecue ribs recipe.

Now you know how easy it is to whip up this scrumptious Easy Turkey Basil Pesto Panini at home! With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can impress anyone at your next meal gathering—or just treat yourself on a quiet afternoon. crispy air fryer ravioli Enjoy every crispy bite!

You Must Know

This easy turkey basil pesto panini is not just a sandwich; it’s a flavor explosion that simplifies meal prep
The bright colors and delightful aroma will have everyone asking for seconds
Plus, it’s perfect for lunch or a quick dinner solution

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by toasting the bread lightly, then layer turkey, pesto, and cheese before grilling until golden brown and melty.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap turkey for chicken or add sun-dried tomatoes for a zesty twist on this easy turkey basil pesto panini.

Storing & Reheating

Wrap leftovers tightly in foil and store in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best results.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always use fresh basil for vibrant flavor; dried just won’t cut it
Press down on the sandwich while grilling to ensure even melting
If using store-bought pesto, try adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness

I once served these paninis at a family gathering, and they disappeared faster than I could make them! Everyone loved them, and I was crowned the ‘Panini Queen’ that day.

FAQ

Can I use different types of bread for an easy turkey basil pesto panini?

Yes, ciabatta or focaccia would work wonderfully as alternatives.

What sides pair well with this panini?

Try serving it with a crisp salad or sweet potato fries for balance. refreshing cucumber pasta salad.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free bread and ensure all sauces are certified gluten-free.

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📖 Recipe Card