Are you ready to elevate your lunch game with a mouthwatering twist on a classic Italian favorite? Introducing Roasted Tomato Focaccia Sandwiches—an irresistible combination of freshly roasted cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all nestled between soft, golden focaccia bread. This delightful sandwich not only bursts with flavor but also brings a touch of gourmet elegance to your dining table. Perfect for a quick lunch or a charming picnic, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Dive into this culinary adventure and discover how easy it is to create a sandwich that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 batch focaccia bread
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, toss halved cherry tomatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread tomatoes cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast the tomatoes in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until they become slightly caramelized and concentrated in flavor. Remove and let cool slightly.
- Slice the focaccia bread horizontally to create sandwich-style tops and bottoms. Brush the interior of each bread slice with remaining olive oil.
- Layer fresh mozzarella slices on the bottom half of the focaccia bread. Arrange the roasted cherry tomatoes evenly over the mozzarella.
- Scatter fresh basil leaves generously over the tomatoes to add bright, aromatic flavor.
- Close the sandwich with the top half of the focaccia bread, pressing gently to compress the ingredients.
- Optional: For a warm, crispy sandwich, return the assembled focaccia to the oven for 5-7 minutes to slightly melt the cheese and toast the bread.
- Cut the focaccia into individual sandwiches and serve immediately while warm.
Tips
- Choose the Right Focaccia: Opt for a freshly baked focaccia from your local bakery or make your own at home for the best texture and flavor. Look for a bread that’s soft yet sturdy enough to hold the filling.
- Roast the Tomatoes to Perfection: Don't rush the roasting process! Allow the cherry tomatoes to caramelize slightly for 15-20 minutes to enhance their natural sweetness and flavor.
- Experiment with Cheese: While fresh mozzarella is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like burrata or provolone for a unique twist.
- Add Extra Flavor: Consider adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Serve Warm: For the ultimate experience, serve your sandwiches warm. A quick return to the oven after assembling will melt the cheese and create a crispy crust.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil adds a wonderful aroma, but don’t hesitate to mix in other herbs like arugula or oregano for added depth.
- Make Ahead: You can roast the tomatoes and prepare the focaccia ahead of time, making assembly quick and easy when you’re ready to serve.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 340kcal
Carbohydrates: 39g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 12mg
