Turkey & Roasted Pepper Panini

One of my favorite restaurants to eat at when I’m in the city is Panera Bread. Are they gourmet? No. Are they somewhat overpriced? Probably. Do they still suck me into ordering from their soup and sandwich (or salad- if you’re into that sort of thing) combo menu? EVERY SINGLE TIME! Ha. That being said, I love when I’m able to create a tasty sandwich like this Turkey & Roasted Pepper Panini that gives me all the Panera vibes without having to leave my own home.

Now I know the recipe says this is a panini, and I do have a panini press that makes all those pretty little designs that you see on the bread, but don’t skip by this delicious sandwich if you don’t have a panini maker.

Because let’s be honest, a panini is just a fancy version of a grilled cheese.

Start this delicious lunch, by putting a smear of pesto on one side of the bread. Any type of bread works, but for paninis I do like using a thicker white bread like sourdough or cottage.

Then layer on the smoked provolone cheese, deli sliced turkey, and roasted red peppers. Top with other slice of bread (pesto on the inside, please).

While you heat your panini press, or skillet, brush the outside of the sandwich with melted butter.

Then place the sandwich onto your heated panini griddle or skillet (cast iron works well here) and grill your sandwich until golden brown and the cheese is melted on the inside.

Slice the sandwich in half and serve with chips, a salad, or my favorite- Broccoli Cheese Soup.