Prosciutto Parmesan Arugula Picnic Sandwich Recipe
There’s something truly satisfying about crafting a gourmet sandwich like this prosciutto and arugula masterpiece, where each bite delivers a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and fresh flavors wrapped in a crusty, garlicky embrace.
I love crafting the perfect picnic sandwich, and this Prosciutto Parmesan Arugula creation is a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Using a crusty baguette, the savory prosciutto pairs beautifully with fresh, peppery arugula and nutty Parmesan.
A drizzle of balsamic glaze and olive oil elevates it to gourmet status.
Prosciutto Parmesan Arugula Picnic Sandwich Recipe Ingredients
- Prosciutto: Rich in protein, adds savory, salty flavor.
- Arugula: Leafy green with peppery taste, high in vitamins A and C.
- Parmesan Cheese: Nutty, salty, high in calcium and protein.
- Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fats, enhances flavor depth.
- Balsamic Glaze: Sweet and tangy, complements savory elements.
Prosciutto Parmesan Arugula Picnic Sandwich Recipe Ingredient Quantities
- 1 baguette or ciabatta loaf, sliced horizontally
- 4 ounces of prosciutto, thinly sliced
- 2 cups of fresh arugula
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of balsamic glaze or reduction
- 1 clove of garlic, halved
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make this Prosciutto Parmesan Arugula Picnic Sandwich Recipe
1. Begin by slicing your baguette or ciabatta loaf horizontally, creating a top and bottom half.
2. Take the cut sides of the bread and gently rub them with the halved garlic clove to infuse the bread with a hint of garlic flavor.
3. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the cut surfaces of both bread halves.
4. Season the bread with a light sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste.
5. On the bottom half of the bread, layer the thinly sliced prosciutto evenly across the surface.
6. Spread the fresh arugula over the prosciutto, ensuring even coverage.
7. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese generously over the arugula.
8. Drizzle the balsamic glaze or reduction over the cheese for a sweet and tangy touch.
9. Carefully place the top half of the bread back onto the sandwich, pressing down gently to hold everything together.
10. Wrap the sandwich tightly in parchment paper or foil to keep it intact and let it sit for at least 10 minutes before slicing into manageable pieces. This resting time allows the flavors to meld.
Prosciutto Parmesan Arugula Picnic Sandwich Recipe Equipment Needed
1. Bread knife
2. Cutting board
3. Small bowl (for olive oil, if desired)
4. Silicone brush or spoon (for drizzling olive oil)
5. Measuring spoons
6. Grater (for Parmesan cheese)
7. Garlic press or small knife (optional, for cutting garlic)
8. Parchment paper or foil
9. Chef’s knife (for slicing the sandwich)
10. Serving platter or plate
FAQ
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Q: Can I use a different type of bread for this sandwich?
A: Yes, you can use any crusty bread like a sourdough or a focaccia if you prefer. -
Q: Is there a substitute for prosciutto?
A: You can use other cured meats like serrano ham or even a thinly sliced smoked turkey for a different flavor. -
Q: How can I make this sandwich vegetarian?
A: Substitute the prosciutto with grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a vegetarian option. -
Q: Can I add more fillings to the sandwich?
A: Absolutely, adding sliced tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or mozzarella can enhance the flavors. -
Q: How do I store the sandwich if not eating immediately?
A: Wrap the sandwich tightly in foil or parchment paper and keep it cool. It’s best enjoyed the day it’s made. -
Q: What is the purpose of rubbing garlic on the bread?
A: Rubbing garlic on the bread adds a subtle layer of flavor that complements the prosciutto and arugula.
Prosciutto Parmesan Arugula Picnic Sandwich Recipe Substitutions and Variations
- For the baguette or ciabatta loaf: Substitute with focaccia or sourdough bread for a different texture.
- For prosciutto: Use thinly sliced turkey or smoked ham for a different flavor profile.
- For arugula: Substitute with fresh spinach or mixed greens.
- For Parmesan cheese: Try pecorino romano or asiago for a similar sharpness.
- For balsamic glaze or reduction: Use a drizzle of honey mixed with a splash of vinegar for sweetness and acidity.
Pro Tips
1. Toast the Bread: Lightly toasting the bread halves after rubbing them with garlic can enhance flavor and add a satisfying crunch to the sandwich.
2. Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for high-quality, fresh prosciutto and arugula to elevate the taste of the sandwich. The flavor difference can be significant.
3. Chill Before Serving: If you can, chill the assembled sandwich in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes before serving. This can firm up the ingredients and make slicing easier, while melding the flavors further.
4. Customize Your Balsamic Glaze: If you have extra time, make your own balsamic reduction by simmering balsamic vinegar until thick. This will allow you to control the sweetness and depth of flavor.
5. Add Texture with Nuts: Consider adding a small handful of toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds on top of the arugula for an extra layer of texture and flavor complexity.
Prosciutto Parmesan Arugula Picnic Sandwich Recipe
My favorite Prosciutto Parmesan Arugula Picnic Sandwich Recipe
Equipment Needed:
1. Bread knife
2. Cutting board
3. Small bowl (for olive oil, if desired)
4. Silicone brush or spoon (for drizzling olive oil)
5. Measuring spoons
6. Grater (for Parmesan cheese)
7. Garlic press or small knife (optional, for cutting garlic)
8. Parchment paper or foil
9. Chef’s knife (for slicing the sandwich)
10. Serving platter or plate
Ingredients:
- 1 baguette or ciabatta loaf, sliced horizontally
- 4 ounces of prosciutto, thinly sliced
- 2 cups of fresh arugula
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of balsamic glaze or reduction
- 1 clove of garlic, halved
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Begin by slicing your baguette or ciabatta loaf horizontally, creating a top and bottom half.
2. Take the cut sides of the bread and gently rub them with the halved garlic clove to infuse the bread with a hint of garlic flavor.
3. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the cut surfaces of both bread halves.
4. Season the bread with a light sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste.
5. On the bottom half of the bread, layer the thinly sliced prosciutto evenly across the surface.
6. Spread the fresh arugula over the prosciutto, ensuring even coverage.
7. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese generously over the arugula.
8. Drizzle the balsamic glaze or reduction over the cheese for a sweet and tangy touch.
9. Carefully place the top half of the bread back onto the sandwich, pressing down gently to hold everything together.
10. Wrap the sandwich tightly in parchment paper or foil to keep it intact and let it sit for at least 10 minutes before slicing into manageable pieces. This resting time allows the flavors to meld.