Stacked with layers of smoky, savory meats, melty cheeses, and herbaceous pesto, this Focaccia Sandwich with Smoked Meats & Pesto is a deli-style masterpiece perfect for any lunch, picnic, or casual gathering. Nestled between pillowy focaccia bread and finished with peppery greens, each bite is bursting with rich, bold flavor and satisfying texture. Whether served warm or at room temperature, it’s an elevated sandwich you’ll want to make again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Gourmet flavor with minimal prep time
- Features a variety of meats and cheeses for complex texture and taste
- Fresh basil pesto adds aromatic depth and brightness
- Ideal for sharing, picnics, or lunch on-the-go
- Customizable with your favorite deli cuts and greens
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 large focaccia bread, sliced horizontally
- 4 oz smoked ham, thinly sliced
- 4 oz baked salami, thinly sliced
- 6 oz roast chicken breast, sliced
- 2 oz smoked provolone, sliced
- 2 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 3 tbsp basil pesto
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves (or arugula)
- Olive oil, for brushing
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Prep the Focaccia:
Slice the focaccia bread horizontally to create a top and bottom half. Lightly brush the cut sides with olive oil. - Spread the Pesto:
Generously spread basil pesto across both halves of the focaccia, making sure to coat the surface for maximum flavor. - Layer the Meats and Cheeses:
On the bottom half, layer the smoked ham, baked salami, and roast chicken breast. Top with sliced smoked provolone and fresh mozzarella. - Add the Greens:
Scatter fresh parsley leaves or arugula over the cheese layer for a peppery, herbaceous finish. - Season and Assemble:
Lightly season with salt and pepper. Place the top half of the focaccia over the fillings and press down gently to secure. - Serve or Store:
For best results, wrap the sandwich tightly in parchment paper or foil if storing for later. Slice into halves or quarters and enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Servings and timing
Servings: 2 large sandwiches
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Calories per Serving: Approximately 610 kcal
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the meats and add grilled zucchini, roasted peppers, and marinated artichokes
- Spicy Version: Add thinly sliced pepperoncini or a smear of Calabrian chili paste
- Cheese Swap: Try aged cheddar, gouda, or fontina for a different flavor profile
- Pesto Alternatives: Use sun-dried tomato pesto or a garlic aioli in place of basil pesto
- Mini Version: Use focaccia rolls to create smaller, portable sandwiches for parties or lunches
Storage/Reheating
Storage:
- Wrap leftovers tightly in foil or parchment and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating:
- For a warm version, heat the sandwich in a toaster oven or panini press until warmed through and slightly crisp on the outside.
FAQs
Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
Yes, it holds up well. For best texture, wrap tightly and store chilled. Add greens just before serving if possible.
What is the best bread for this sandwich?
Focaccia is ideal for its structure and flavor, but ciabatta or a rustic loaf are good alternatives.
Is this sandwich best served hot or cold?
It’s delicious both ways. Warm it for melty cheese or enjoy it chilled for a picnic-style option.
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, high-quality store-bought pesto works well, but homemade will add a fresher flavor.
What greens pair best with this sandwich?
Fresh parsley adds herbal brightness, but arugula or baby spinach also work well.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free focaccia or your favorite gluten-free sandwich bread.
Is there a good dairy-free alternative for the cheese?
Use your preferred dairy-free cheese slices or omit cheese entirely and double the pesto for moisture.
Can I substitute the meats?
Yes, turkey, roast beef, or prosciutto can be used in place of ham or salami.
How do I prevent the sandwich from getting soggy?
Spread pesto on both sides and avoid overly wet ingredients. Assemble just before eating when possible.
What can I serve with this sandwich?
Serve with chips, a crisp side salad, or marinated olives for a full meal.
Conclusion
The Focaccia Sandwich with Smoked Meats & Pesto is an irresistible combination of texture, flavor, and simple ingredients done right. From the smoky meats and melty cheeses to the herb-rich pesto and soft focaccia, every layer contributes to a gourmet sandwich experience. Whether packed for lunch or shared at a weekend picnic, it’s a delicious, satisfying meal that’s easy to assemble and impossible to resist.
Print
Focaccia Sandwich with Smoked Meats & Pesto
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 large sandwiches
Description
This Focaccia Sandwich with Smoked Meats & Pesto is a stacked, savory masterpiece filled with layers of ham, salami, roast chicken, smoked provolone, and fresh mozzarella. Slathered in basil pesto and tucked between fluffy focaccia, it’s the ultimate gourmet lunch or picnic treat. #focacciarecipe
Ingredients
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1 large focaccia bread, sliced in half
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4 oz smoked ham, thinly sliced
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4 oz baked salami, thinly sliced
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6 oz roast chicken breast, sliced
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2 oz smoked provolone, sliced
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2 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
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3 tbsp basil pesto
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1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves (or arugula)
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Olive oil, for brushing
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Prep the focaccia:
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Slice the focaccia horizontally to create a top and bottom.
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Brush the inner sides lightly with olive oil.
2. Spread pesto:
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Generously spread basil pesto over both cut sides of the bread.
3. Layer the meats and cheese:
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On the bottom half, layer smoked ham, baked salami, roast chicken, smoked provolone, and fresh mozzarella.
4. Add greens and season:
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Top with fresh parsley leaves or arugula.
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Sprinkle with a bit of salt and pepper for added flavor.
5. Assemble and serve:
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Place the top focaccia half over the filling. Press gently.
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Slice and serve immediately, or wrap in parchment or foil for storage or transport. Great warm or at room temp.
Notes
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Use sun-dried tomato pesto or spicy mustard for a flavor twist.
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Great grilled or pressed panini-style for a melty, warm option.
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Add marinated artichokes or roasted peppers for more depth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Sandwich
- Method: No-cook, Assembly
- Cuisine: : Italian-Inspired, Deli-Style
