Italian Flatbread Sandwich

In our house, weeknight dinners are often a dance between delicious and doable. We crave flavorful meals, but time is always of the essence. This Italian Flatbread Sandwich recipe has become a true champion in our kitchen. It’s the kind of meal that feels both special and incredibly easy to throw together. The first time I made it, the aroma alone was enough to draw everyone to the table. My kids, usually picky eaters, devoured it, proclaiming it “the best sandwich ever!” The combination of crispy flatbread, savory Italian meats, creamy cheese, and vibrant vegetables is simply irresistible. It’s become our go-to for a quick yet satisfying dinner, a delightful lunch, or even a crowd-pleasing appetizer when cut into smaller portions. Trust me, this Italian Flatbread Sandwich is a recipe you’ll want to make again and again – it’s a little slice of Italy right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• Flatbread: 1 large flatbread (about 12-14 inches) – Look for a pre-made flatbread at your local grocery store. Focaccia flatbread or a large pita bread work wonderfully, offering a slightly chewy and flavorful base for your sandwich. You can also use pre-made pizza dough and bake it into a flatbread if you are feeling ambitious.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons – Extra virgin olive oil is best for its rich flavor and health benefits. It will be used to brush the flatbread, adding a touch of crispness and enhancing the overall taste.
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced – Fresh garlic adds a pungent and aromatic base note to the sandwich. Mince it finely to ensure even distribution and flavor infusion.
• Pesto: 1/4 cup – Basil pesto, either homemade or store-bought, provides a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor. It acts as a delicious spread and sauce, tying all the ingredients together. Consider using sun-dried tomato pesto for a different flavor profile.
• Prosciutto: 4 ounces, thinly sliced – Prosciutto is a dry-cured ham with a delicate, salty, and slightly sweet flavor. Its thin slices melt in your mouth and add a luxurious touch to the sandwich. You can substitute with other Italian cured meats like salami or mortadella.
• Salami: 4 ounces, thinly sliced – Italian salami offers a spicier and more robust flavor compared to prosciutto. Choose a variety like Genoa salami or Calabrese salami for different levels of spiciness and flavor complexity.
• Fresh Mozzarella: 4 ounces, thinly sliced – Fresh mozzarella is a soft, mild cheese with a milky flavor and creamy texture. It melts beautifully and complements the other Italian ingredients perfectly. You can use pre-sliced or slice a fresh mozzarella ball yourself.
• Roasted Red Peppers: 1 cup, jarred or homemade, drained and sliced – Roasted red peppers offer a sweet and smoky flavor that adds depth to the sandwich. Jarred roasted red peppers are a convenient option, or you can easily roast your own at home for an even fresher taste.
• Artichoke Hearts: 1 cup, marinated, drained and halved – Marinated artichoke hearts provide a tangy, slightly acidic, and briny flavor that cuts through the richness of the meats and cheese. They also add a pleasant textural element.
• Fresh Arugula: 2 cups – Arugula, also known as rocket, adds a peppery and slightly bitter note that balances the richness of the other ingredients. Its delicate leaves provide a fresh and vibrant element to the sandwich.
• Balsamic Glaze: For drizzling (optional) – Balsamic glaze, also known as balsamic reduction, is a concentrated balsamic vinegar with a sweet and tangy flavor. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity, enhancing the overall flavor profile and visual appeal.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Flatbread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the flatbread on a large baking sheet. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil and minced garlic. Brush the garlic-infused olive oil evenly over the flatbread, ensuring to reach the edges. This step will help the flatbread become crispy and flavorful during baking.
2. Spread the Pesto: Spread the pesto evenly over the olive oil-brushed flatbread, leaving a small border around the edges. Pesto acts as the flavorful base for the sandwich and will help to keep the other ingredients moist.
3. Layer the Meats and Cheese: Begin layering the ingredients onto the pesto-covered flatbread. First, distribute the prosciutto slices evenly over the pesto. Then, layer the salami slices on top of the prosciutto. Next, arrange the fresh mozzarella slices over the meats, ensuring they are somewhat evenly distributed.
4. Add Vegetables: Scatter the sliced roasted red peppers and halved artichoke hearts over the mozzarella cheese. Distribute them evenly across the flatbread to ensure each bite has a mix of flavors.
5. Bake the Sandwich: Place the baking sheet with the assembled flatbread sandwich in the preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the flatbread is lightly golden brown and crispy around the edges, and the mozzarella cheese is melted and gooey. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, as oven temperatures can vary.
6. Add Arugula and Balsamic Glaze (Optional): Once the flatbread sandwich is baked, remove it from the oven. Immediately scatter the fresh arugula leaves evenly over the hot sandwich. The heat from the flatbread will slightly wilt the arugula, making it tender. If desired, drizzle balsamic glaze over the entire sandwich for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.
7. Slice and Serve: Carefully transfer the baked flatbread sandwich to a large cutting board. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the sandwich into squares or wedges. The size of the slices will depend on whether you are serving it as a main course, appetizer, or snack. Serve immediately while it’s warm and the flatbread is still crispy.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6

Calories Per Serving: Approximately 550 kcal

• Fat: 35g

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes

This Italian Flatbread Sandwich is incredibly quick and easy to prepare. Most of the time is spent in assembling the ingredients, making it a perfect weeknight meal option. The baking time is short, ensuring you can have a delicious and satisfying dinner on the table in just about half an hour.

How to Serve

This versatile Italian Flatbread Sandwich can be served in various ways, making it perfect for different occasions:

• As a Main Course:
  • Serve warm, sliced into generous squares or wedges, accompanied by a fresh side salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or a Caprese salad would complement the richness of the sandwich beautifully.
  • Pair it with a bowl of light soup, such as tomato soup or minestrone, for a more substantial and comforting meal.
  • Consider serving it with roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers to add more nutrients and fiber to the meal.
• As an Appetizer:
  • Cut the flatbread sandwich into smaller, bite-sized squares or strips for easy handling and sharing at parties or gatherings.
  • Arrange the smaller pieces on a platter with toothpicks or small skewers for guests to easily grab and enjoy.
  • Serve alongside other Italian appetizers like olives, marinated vegetables, and bruschetta for a delicious Italian-themed spread.
• For Lunch:
  • Enjoy a slice or two of the flatbread sandwich cold or at room temperature for a flavorful and satisfying lunch.
  • Pack it in a lunchbox with some fresh fruit, vegetables sticks, or a small container of olives for a complete and balanced midday meal.
• Serving Suggestions for Special Occasions:
  • For a more elegant presentation, garnish the platter with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
  • Serve with a side of homemade dipping sauce, such as a creamy garlic aioli or a spicy marinara sauce, for added flavor.
  • Pair it with Italian wines like Chianti or Pinot Grigio to enhance the Italian flavors and create a sophisticated dining experience.

Additional Tips

1. Customize Your Flatbread: Experiment with different types of flatbreads! Focaccia adds a delightful herby flavor and slightly thicker texture. Ciabatta flatbread offers a more rustic and chewy base. Even pita bread or naan can work in a pinch, though they will have a different texture.
2. Spice it Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the olive oil and garlic mixture before brushing it on the flatbread. You can also use spicy salami like Calabrese or add a drizzle of hot honey after baking.
3. Cheese Variations: While fresh mozzarella is classic, feel free to experiment with other Italian cheeses. Provolone adds a sharper, slightly nutty flavor. Fontina offers a rich, creamy, and nutty taste. Smoked mozzarella will impart a smoky depth to the sandwich.
4. Vegetarian Option: Easily make this vegetarian by omitting the prosciutto and salami. Load up on roasted vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers. Grilled halloumi cheese or marinated tofu can also be added for protein.
5. Make it Ahead (Partially): You can prepare the flatbread with pesto, meats, cheese, and roasted peppers ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator, covered, and bake it just before serving. This is a great time-saver for parties or busy weeknights.
6. Fresh Herbs are Key: Don’t underestimate the power of fresh herbs! Besides arugula, consider adding fresh basil leaves, oregano, or thyme to the sandwich. Sprinkle them on after baking for the freshest flavor and aroma.
7. Toast the Flatbread First (Optional): For an extra crispy flatbread, you can lightly toast it in the oven for a few minutes before adding the toppings. This will prevent the flatbread from becoming soggy from the pesto and other ingredients.
8. Elevate with Balsamic Fig Jam: For a sweet and savory twist, try spreading a thin layer of balsamic fig jam underneath the pesto. The fig jam adds a wonderful depth of flavor that complements the Italian ingredients beautifully.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this flatbread sandwich ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can partially prepare it ahead of time. You can assemble the flatbread with pesto, meats, cheese, and roasted peppers and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours before baking. Bake it just before serving for the best results. It is not recommended to fully bake and then reheat as the flatbread may become soggy.

Q2: Can I use different vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences and what you have on hand. Grilled zucchini, eggplant, caramelized onions, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and olives are all delicious additions.

Q3: What if I don’t have pesto? Can I use something else?
A: Yes, if you don’t have pesto, you can use other flavorful spreads. Olive tapenade, roasted red pepper spread, or even a simple garlic aioli would work well. You could also use a drizzle of good quality olive oil and sprinkle with Italian herbs like oregano and basil for a simpler flavor profile.

Q4: Can I make this vegan?
A: Yes, to make this vegan, simply omit the prosciutto, salami, and mozzarella cheese. Replace the mozzarella with vegan mozzarella shreds or slices. Focus on using a variety of roasted or grilled vegetables and consider adding protein sources like marinated and grilled tofu or tempeh strips. Ensure your pesto is also vegan (some pesto contains Parmesan cheese).

Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A: Leftovers are best stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container. However, the flatbread may lose some of its crispness upon refrigeration. It is best enjoyed fresh. If you do have leftovers, you can reheat them in the oven or toaster oven at a low temperature to try and crisp up the flatbread again, but it may not be as crispy as when freshly baked.

Q6: Can I grill this flatbread sandwich instead of baking it?
A: Yes, grilling is a fantastic option, especially in the summer! Prepare the flatbread as instructed, and then place it on a preheated grill over medium heat. Grill for about 5-7 minutes, or until the flatbread is nicely marked and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Be sure to watch it carefully to prevent burning.

Q7: What kind of flatbread is best for this recipe?
A: Focaccia flatbread, ciabatta flatbread, or large pita bread are all excellent choices. Look for pre-made flatbreads at your grocery store. Focaccia and ciabatta offer great flavor and texture that complement the Italian ingredients. A thinner pita bread will result in a crispier sandwich.

Q8: Can I add other meats besides prosciutto and salami?
A: Certainly! You can add other Italian cured meats like mortadella, capicola, or speck. Cooked Italian sausage, thinly sliced grilled chicken, or even shredded rotisserie chicken would also be delicious additions for a heartier sandwich.