Focaccia Sandwich: A Simple Guide

A focaccia sandwich is a great choice for a meal. Learn how to build the perfect one with this guide. We cover fillings, techniques, and tips.

The Joy of a Focaccia Sandwich

A focaccia sandwich is more than just food. It is a delightful experience. The soft, airy bread provides a wonderful base. Therefore, it is ideal for many different fillings. From simple to gourmet, it can easily be adapted. The versatility of a focaccia bread sandwich is one of its main charms. It is perfect for picnics, lunches, or a quick meal. Its unique texture and flavor profile make it a wonderful alternative to typical sandwich breads. The slightly salty and herbaceous notes of the focaccia complement savory and sweet fillings beautifully. It’s a bread that doesn’t just hold the fillings, it enhances them.

Why Choose a Focaccia Sandwich?

• It is very easy to make at home. The process, while simple, allows room for experimentation and personalization.
• The bread can be found easily or baked at home. It’s a baking project that’s both rewarding and not overly complex.
• It is very adaptable, with many options for fillings. You’re never stuck with the same old sandwich.
• A focaccia sandwich is portable and perfect for taking to work or school. Its structure holds up well.
• It tastes amazing! The texture is soft yet sturdy, which is perfect for many options.

Basic Focaccia Sandwich Recipe

This version is a starting point. It uses simple, accessible ingredients. It is perfect for a quick lunch or snack.

Ingredients

• For the Focaccia:
  • 1 loaf of focaccia bread (about 10-12 inches) You can buy a loaf at the store or make one at home.
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil. This is for brushing the focaccia, if needed.
• For the Filling:
  • 4 ounces of mozzarella cheese, sliced. You can use fresh or pre-sliced mozzarella.
  • 2 medium tomatoes, sliced. Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
  • 4-6 large basil leaves. Fresh basil is important for the aroma and taste.
  • 1 tablespoon of pesto (optional). This is used for a flavor boost.
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste. This is for added flavor.

Equipment

• Cutting board. A stable cutting surface.
• Serrated knife. For slicing the focaccia.
• Small knife or spreader. For the pesto, if needed.
• Plate or serving platter. For serving the sandwich.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Focaccia:
   • Place the loaf of focaccia on the cutting board.
   • Using a serrated knife, carefully slice the focaccia horizontally, creating two halves. If you have smaller focaccia squares, you can simply slice them open like a pita. If you are using focaccia slices, you do not need to cut them.
2. Prep the Ingredients:
   • Wash and slice the tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
   • If using pre-sliced mozzarella, make sure the slices are all of equal thickness. If not, then slice the mozzarella.

• Wash and dry the basil leaves thoroughly.

1. Assemble the Sandwich:

• If using, spread a thin layer of pesto on the inside of the bottom focaccia slice. This adds a great flavor base.
• Next, layer the mozzarella cheese slices evenly on the bottom half of the focaccia. Make sure it covers as much of the focaccia as possible.
• Place the tomato slices on top of the cheese, overlapping them slightly for good coverage.
• Arrange the fresh basil leaves over the tomatoes. The basil adds a wonderful aromatic quality.
• Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

1. Complete the Sandwich:
   • Carefully place the top focaccia slice over the filling. Gently press it down. This keeps everything in place.
   • If desired, brush the top of the focaccia with a bit of olive oil. This adds flavor and shine.
2. Serve:
   • Cut the focaccia sandwich in half or into smaller portions if desired. Use a serrated knife for best results.
   • Serve immediately and enjoy your simple focaccia sandwich. It is best enjoyed while the bread is fresh and soft.

Focaccia Sandwich Variations

Now that you know the basic method, let’s explore some exciting alternatives.

Italian Style

• Ingredients: Focaccia bread, prosciutto, arugula, sun-dried tomatoes, olive oil, balsamic glaze.
• Instructions:
  1. Slice the focaccia in half.
  2. Lightly drizzle olive oil on the bottom half.
  3. Layer prosciutto over the bottom slice.
  4. Add a layer of arugula.
  5. Add sun-dried tomatoes.
  6. Drizzle with balsamic glaze.
  7. Place the top focaccia slice on the filling, serve immediately.

Vegetarian Delight

• Ingredients: Focaccia bread, grilled vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant), pesto, goat cheese.
• Instructions:
  1. Slice the focaccia in half.
  2. Spread pesto on the bottom half.
  3. Layer grilled vegetables evenly over the pesto.
  4. Add crumbled goat cheese.
  5. Place the top focaccia slice on the filling, serve immediately.

Hearty Option

• Ingredients: Focaccia bread, roasted turkey or chicken slices, your choice of cheese (such as cheddar, provolone, or Swiss), lettuce, mayonnaise or mustard.
• Instructions:
  1. Slice the focaccia in half.
  2. Spread mayonnaise or mustard on the bottom half.
  3. Layer roasted turkey or chicken slices on top.
  4. Add your choice of cheese slices.
  5. Add a layer of lettuce.
  6. Place the top focaccia slice on the filling, serve immediately.

Mediterranean Style

• Ingredients: Focaccia bread, hummus, cucumber slices, tomato slices, feta cheese, olives, oregano or za’atar.
• Instructions:
  1. Slice the focaccia in half.
  2. Spread a layer of hummus on the bottom half.
  3. Add cucumber slices.
  4. Add tomato slices.
  5. Add crumbled feta cheese.
  6. Add olives.
  7. Sprinkle with oregano or za’atar.
  8. Place the top focaccia slice on the filling, serve immediately.

Breakfast Sandwich

• Ingredients: Focaccia bread, cream cheese, scrambled eggs, cooked bacon or sausage, salt and pepper.
• Instructions:
  1. Slice the focaccia in half.
  2. Spread cream cheese on both halves.
  3. Layer scrambled eggs on the bottom half.
  4. Top with cooked bacon or sausage.
  5. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Place the top focaccia slice on the filling, serve immediately.

Tips for Success

• Freshness is Key: Use the freshest focaccia possible for best results.
• High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for good quality ingredients, it makes a big difference.
• Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill the sandwich to make it easier to handle and eat.
• Layering Matters: Layer ingredients to maximize flavor and prevent sogginess.
• Get Creative: Experiment with different ingredients to create your own favorite combinations.

Serving Your Sandwich

Once assembled, you can serve your focaccia sandwich immediately. It can also be wrapped and saved for later. For best results, use wax paper or plastic wrap. This keeps it fresh. Focaccia sandwiches are best enjoyed when the bread is still soft. Therefore, don’t leave them for too long. The ideal time is within a few hours.

Creative Focaccia Sandwich Combinations

Here are a few more specific ideas to explore. These suggestions can elevate your next focaccia sandwich. Think of these as starting points for your own creation.

Mediterranean Focaccia Sandwich

This style brings in bright, bold flavors. Use a base of hummus. Then, add cucumber, tomatoes, feta cheese, and olives. A sprinkle of oregano or za’atar adds even more flavor. This is a great choice if you want a light and refreshing sandwich. The combination of flavors and textures is truly delightful, making it a perfect choice for a light meal.

Roast Chicken & Pesto

For a hearty meal, try roast chicken and pesto. Begin with a layer of basil pesto. Add shredded roasted chicken. Next, place slices of provolone cheese. You can also add roasted red peppers for extra flavor. These ingredients compliment each other very well. The pesto adds a layer of herbaceous flavor, while the chicken provides protein and substance. The provolone adds a rich, creamy note.

Breakfast Focaccia Sandwich

A focaccia sandwich also works for breakfast. Use a base of cream cheese. Then add scrambled eggs. Add cooked bacon, sausage, or mushrooms. A sprinkle of salt and pepper will complete your morning treat. A bit of hot sauce can also add a wonderful kick.

Vegetarian Focaccia with Roasted Vegetables

This is a great option for vegetarians. Roast some vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant. Place the vegetables on a focaccia. Use a layer of sun-dried tomato paste or balsamic glaze to enhance the taste. Add some goat cheese for extra taste. These vegetables provide a hearty and satisfying taste.

Italian Deli Style

Embrace the flavors of Italy by using various cured meats. Layer prosciutto, salami, and mortadella. Add slices of provolone, fresh tomatoes, and a mix of olives. A light drizzling of olive oil adds to the flavor. This makes a satisfying and rich sandwich. Each meat adds a distinct flavor and texture that creates a sophisticated taste.

Tips for the Best Focaccia Sandwich

Here are some additional tips. Use these to make your focaccia sandwich even better. Remember, the small details often make the biggest difference.

Use High-Quality Ingredients

The better the ingredients, the better the sandwich will be. Therefore, always choose the best bread, meat, and cheese. It makes a big difference. Also, be sure to use fresh produce. The freshness of your ingredients directly impacts the taste and freshness of your sandwich.

Don’t Overfill

It’s easy to go overboard when adding fillings. Try to avoid making the sandwich too thick. This makes it hard to handle and eat. It also helps prevent the fillings from sliding out. A balance of ingredients is key. A well-balanced sandwich is easier to enjoy and is also much more visually appealing.

Add a Touch of Flavor

Try adding a sprinkle of herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or balsamic. These additions can elevate the taste of your focaccia sandwich. You might want to experiment with different flavors. These extra touches can bring all the components together in a truly harmonious way.

Warm Your Sandwich

If you like a warm sandwich, briefly toast it in a panini press. This makes the bread crispy. It also helps to melt the cheese. A warm focaccia bread sandwich is a great comfort food. The warmth enhances the texture and aromas of the bread and the fillings.

Plan Ahead

If you are making focaccia sandwiches for a party, prepare the fillings in advance. This allows for quick assembly when you need it. You can also bake the focaccia bread the day before. This makes the process efficient and less stressful on the day of the event.

Keeping it Fresh

Freshness is key to a good sandwich. Therefore, here are some important tips for keeping things fresh. It’s not just about the taste, but also the overall quality of the sandwich experience.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, wrap them carefully. Use wax paper or plastic wrap. This keeps the bread from drying out. Store the focaccia sandwich in the fridge for up to one day. It is best to eat them on the same day if possible. Proper storage can help maintain the quality of the bread.

Prepping Ahead

You can prep some ingredients ahead. Vegetables can be cut in advance. Meats and cheeses can be sliced. This saves you time during assembly. The goal is to make the process easy and efficient. These steps make assembly much faster and also help you avoid last minute rush.

Freshness is Best

Always remember that focaccia sandwiches taste best when the bread is fresh. Use fresh focaccia bread, or bake it yourself. The freshness of the bread can make or break the sandwich. The texture and taste of fresh focaccia can truly enhance the flavor of your sandwich.

Elevated Focaccia Sandwich Ideas

Are you looking to create something a little more unique? Then, consider these ideas. These aren’t your everyday focaccia sandwiches; they’re designed to impress.

Fig and Prosciutto with Balsamic Glaze

For a sophisticated focaccia sandwich, combine prosciutto, fig jam, and cheese. Then add a drizzle of balsamic glaze. This is an indulgent choice that provides a mix of sweet and savory. The textures and flavors are wonderful together. The saltiness of the prosciutto pairs wonderfully with the sweet fig jam and rich cheese.

Spicy Salami and Roasted Peppers

For those who like a bit of a kick, try spicy salami, roasted peppers, and pepper jack cheese. Then, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. This focaccia sandwich offers a taste of heat. The spice from the salami and peppers is balanced by the creamy cheese.

Avocado and Egg with Chipotle Mayo

A mashed avocado with an egg and chipotle mayo is a tasty option. Top with a few fresh greens. This focaccia sandwich is both flavorful and filling. It works well for a lunch or a light meal. It also provides a healthy dose of protein and good fats.

Gourmet Grilled Cheese Focaccia

Take grilled cheese to a new level using focaccia. Use several kinds of cheese, such as Gruyere, cheddar and a bit of brie. Add a drizzle of truffle oil. Grill the sandwich until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden and crispy. This is a classic comfort food, elevated with gourmet touches.

Focaccia with Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese

For a luxurious take, try a focaccia sandwich with smoked salmon and cream cheese. Add capers and a few sprigs of dill. A little bit of lemon juice can be added to enhance the flavor. This combination is elegant and perfect for a light lunch or brunch. The rich salmon and creamy cheese work harmoniously together.

The Versatility of Focaccia: Beyond Sandwiches

While this article focuses on focaccia sandwiches, it’s worth noting the bread’s versatility. Focaccia can be enjoyed in many other ways. This highlights how adaptable this bread is. It can be a star on its own, or a great component for other meals.

Serving Focaccia as an Appetizer

Focaccia can be served as an appetizer, drizzled with olive oil. Add herbs and sea salt, and it’s a perfect start to a meal. You can also add cheese and olives. It makes for a simple yet elegant appetizer.

Using Focaccia for Croutons

Cut leftover focaccia into cubes. Bake them with olive oil and herbs until they are crispy. They make great croutons for salads and soups. It is a perfect way to reuse bread and elevate your meals.

Focaccia as a Base for Pizza

Focaccia’s flat surface and sturdy texture makes it a good pizza base. Add your favorite toppings and bake. This makes for a quick and easy pizza.

Focaccia with Dips

Use focaccia as a base for dips. Its texture is great for holding dips and toppings. It is also perfect for sharing with friends.

Conclusion

A focaccia sandwich is a great option for a meal. It is easy to make, and it’s also adaptable. It can be simple or sophisticated. The choices are endless. The most important thing is to use ingredients that you love. This way you can create a sandwich that truly compliments your taste. So go ahead and try a focaccia bread sandwich today! Let your creativity guide you and enjoy the process of creating your perfect sandwich.

Frequently Asked Questions

What to put in focaccia sandwiches?

You can put many things in a focaccia sandwich. Options include meats, cheeses, vegetables, and spreads. Choose ingredients that match your taste. Try different combinations for something unique. The possibilities are truly endless.

How to make a focaccia sandwich?

First, select your focaccia bread. Cut it as needed. Layer your chosen fillings and spreads. Finally, serve your focaccia sandwich fresh. The whole process is easy and allows for experimentation.

How to cut focaccia bread for sandwiches?

You can cut the focaccia into squares or slices. For a full sandwich, split it horizontally. Smaller pieces can be cut open. The cut depends on the final size you want. A sharp knife is always useful to have on hand.