Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will transform your ordinary lunch into an extraordinary gastronomic experience! This Turkey and Brie Panini isn't just a sandwich – it's a luxurious blend of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors that will make your taste buds dance with delight. Imagine crispy, golden-brown ciabatta embracing tender turkey and velvety brie cheese, with a subtle hint of sweet cranberry sauce that elevates this classic combination to restaurant-worthy perfection.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 4 slices of ciabatta bread
- 4 ounces sliced turkey
- 4 ounces brie cheese, sliced
- 1 tablespoon cranberry sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Remove the brie cheese from the refrigerator 15-20 minutes before preparing to allow it to soften slightly and become more spreadable.
- Lay out the ciabatta bread slices on a clean cutting board or work surface.
- Spread a thin layer of cranberry sauce on the interior side of two bread slices, creating an even, light coating.
- Layer the sliced turkey evenly across the cranberry-spread bread slices, ensuring full coverage.
- Carefully arrange the sliced brie cheese on top of the turkey, covering the meat completely.
- Close the sandwiches by placing the remaining bread slices on top, with the interior sides facing inward.
- Melt the butter in a panini press or large skillet over medium heat.
- If using a skillet, gently press the sandwiches with a heavy pan or spatula to create a pressed effect.
- Cook the sandwiches for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the cheese is fully melted.
- Remove from heat, let rest for 1-2 minutes, then slice diagonally and serve immediately while warm.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Allow the brie to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before preparing. This helps it melt more evenly and creates a smoother texture.
- Butter Technique: Use softened butter and spread it evenly on the exterior of the bread to ensure a consistently golden and crispy crust.
- Pressing Perfection: If you don't have a panini press, use a heavy skillet and press down gently with a spatula to achieve that signature crispy, compressed texture.
- Cheese Melting Hack: For extra melty brie, you can briefly cover the panini while cooking to help the cheese reach that perfect, gooey consistency.
- Serving Suggestion: Let the panini rest for 1-2 minutes after cooking to allow the cheese to set slightly and prevent burning your mouth.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 525kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 105mg
