Name: Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich Bursting with Flavor
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 loaf Thick Fresh Focaccia (homemade or high-quality store-bought); 1 tbsp Pesto Sauce (spread thinly); 8 oz Burrata Cheese (room temperature); 4 oz Prosciutto (thin slices); 2 oz Salami (very thin slices); 1 cup Young Arugula (lightly seasoned); 1 tbsp Olive Oil (extra virgin); 1 pinch Salt; 1 pinch Black Pepper; 1 cup Chips (optional)

As I was wandering through the sun-drenched streets of Bologna, the heady aroma of fresh bread and savory meats pulled me in like a warm embrace. It’s this evocative Italian charm that inspired my Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich, a dish that transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal. With its soft and pillowy focaccia, creamy burrata, and the savory richness of prosciutto, this sandwich is a delightful option for a quick lunch or an impressive gathering. What’s even better? It’s effortlessly customizable to suit your taste, making it as fun as it is delicious. Get ready to elevate your lunch game—are you curious to see how easy it is to create this scrumptious masterpiece?

Why is this sandwich a must-try?

Simplicity makes it approachable for every home cook, ensuring anyone can whip it up effortlessly. Mouthwatering flavors shine through each bite, as creamy burrata and savory prosciutto marry beautifully. Customization is key; feel free to swap in favorite ingredients like turkey or roasted veggies. Perfect for gatherings, this sandwich is sure to impress guests and delight your family. For a full meal experience, consider pairing it with a refreshing Italian wedding soup or a light salad.

Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich Ingredients

• Dive into the deliciousness of your homemade sandwich!

For the Focaccia
• Thick Fresh Focaccia – This provides the perfect soft structure; consider homemade or high-quality store-bought for best results.

For the Filling
• Pesto Sauce – A thin layer adds a rich, herby flavor to avoid sogginess.
• Burrata Cheese – Ensuring it’s at room temperature enhances its creamy texture and makes spreading a breeze.
• Prosciutto – Thin slices deliver a savory richness; keep it light to balance flavors.
• Salami – Adds extra savory depth; again, opt for very thin slices for a pleasant texture.
• Young Arugula – This peppery green adds a refreshing crunch; season lightly to enhance its natural flavor.
• Olive Oil – A drizzle on arugula elevates flavors, so always choose a quality extra virgin.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning, they enhance the overall taste of your Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich.

For Serving
• Chips (Optional) – Serve alongside for an enjoyable crunch that complements the sandwich.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich

Step 1: Slice the Focaccia
Using a serrated knife, carefully slice the thick fresh focaccia horizontally into two equal halves. Aim for clean edges to create a sturdy base for your Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich. Take a moment to admire the airy texture inside—this is where all the delicious fillings will nestle!

Step 2: Add the Pesto
Spread a thin, even layer of pesto sauce on the cut side of the bottom half of the focaccia. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to ensure the pesto covers all corners without excess pooling, which could lead to sogginess. This herby layer serves as the flavorful foundation for your sandwich.

Step 3: Layer the Burrata
Tear the room-temperature burrata cheese into generous pieces and layer them over the pesto. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and a dash of black pepper over the cheese to enhance its creaminess and flavor. The burrata should be invitingly oozy; this will create a rich, luxurious base for the toppings to come.

Step 4: Add the Prosciutto and Salami
Next, artfully layer the thin slices of prosciutto over the burrata, followed by the salami. Arrange them evenly for a balanced bite, allowing the savory richness of these meats to complement the creamy burrata. Feel free to add more or less to your liking, ensuring the ingredients sit snugly together.

Step 5: Top with Arugula
Evenly distribute a handful of young arugula over the salami. This peppery green adds a delightful crunch and freshness to your Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich. Finish with a light drizzle of quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the flavor of the arugula without overwhelming its natural taste.

Step 6: Assemble the Sandwich
Carefully place the top half of the focaccia on the stacked ingredients, ensuring it aligns perfectly. Press down gently but firmly to help the flavors meld together. The focaccia should hold all delicious fillings securely without squishing down too much. This sandwich is now ready for slicing!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Using a sharp knife, slice the sandwich in half for easy eating. Aim for a diagonal cut to showcase the delicious layers inside. Serve immediately, perhaps with a side of crispy chips for an added crunch, and experience the burst of flavors in every bite of your Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich!

Make Ahead Options

These Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwiches are perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare all the sandwich components up to 24 hours in advance. Slice the focaccia and spread the pesto, then layer the burrata, prosciutto, and salami in an airtight container, refrigerating each component separately to maintain quality. Make sure to add the arugula and drizzle the olive oil just before serving to keep the greens crisp. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply assemble the sandwich and slice it in half for a delicious, gourmet experience that’s just as mouthwatering as if made fresh!

What to Serve with Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich

Imagine hosting a cozy gathering or enjoying a sunny afternoon outdoors, sipping on drinks and savoring delicious bites that complement your meal.

Light Side Salad: A refreshing salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette brightens the meal and adds a crunchy contrast.
Italian Wedding Soup: This comforting, savory soup features meatballs and greens, harmonizing beautifully with the rich flavors of the focaccia sandwich.
Marinated Olives: A bowl of marinated olives offers a salty, briny bite, making for an excellent appetizer that sets the Italian mood.
Herbed Potato Chips: Serve crispy chips with a hint of rosemary or sage for a satisfying crunch that enhances the sandwich experience.
Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies drizzled with balsamic glaze bring a warm, earthy element that pairs well with the sandwich’s freshness.
Sparkling Lemonade: A glass of fizzy, refreshing lemonade provides a delightful contrast to the savory richness of the focaccia, perfect for warm days.
Chocolate Hazelnut Tart: End your meal on a sweet note with a rich, decadent tart, making each bite feel indulgent and luxurious alongside your sandwich.

Storage Tips for Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich

Room Temperature: Enjoy your Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich fresh for the best flavor and texture. It’s best consumed immediately, but it can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours before it should be refrigerated.

Fridge: If you have leftovers, wrap the sandwich tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness; however, be mindful that the texture may soften.

Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the sandwich (without arugula and burrata) wrapped in plastic wrap and then foil. It can last in the freezer for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, unwrap the frozen sandwich and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes until heated through. Add fresh arugula and burrata after reheating for the best taste.

Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich Variations

Feel free to embark on a delicious journey of customization with your sandwich—it’s all about making it your own!

Mozzarella Swap:
Substitute burrata with mozzarella for a firmer, classic flavor. It holds its shape well, giving your sandwich a different texture.
Turkey Alternative:
Replace prosciutto with turkey slices for a lighter, leaner option. This variation still offers a savory bite while boosting the dish’s protein.
Vegetarian Delight:
Use roasted vegetables instead of meats for a flavorful vegetarian version. Grilled zucchini or eggplant pairs beautifully and adds a satisfyingly hearty texture.
Spicy Kick:
Add sliced jalapeños or banana peppers to introduce a touch of heat. This addition awakens the palate and adds an exciting twist to each bite.
Herbed Olive Oil:
Infuse your olive oil with garlic or herbs before drizzling it on the arugula. This adds a fragrant touch that elevates your sandwich’s flavor profile.
Chips Inclusion:
Sprinkle your favorite crispy chips right inside the sandwich before closing it up. This brings delightful crunch and a fun contrast of textures with every bite.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Include sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweet and tangy flavor. Their concentrated taste complements the creaminess of the burrata perfectly.
Savory Spread:
Try adding a layer of a savory spread like fig jam or balsamic reduction. This unexpected sweet note enhances the richness of the sandwich and brings everything together beautifully.

Embrace the joy of cooking by diving into these variations, and don’t forget to check out our delicious classic potato pancakes to serve alongside this scrumptious focaccia sandwich!

Expert Tips for Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich

• Room Temperature Burrata: Let your burrata sit out for at least 30 minutes before assembly. This ensures optimal creamy spreadability, enhancing your Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich.

• Even Pesto Layer: Spread the pesto sauce thinly to avoid sogginess. A little goes a long way in keeping your sandwich perfectly balanced and flavorful.

• Avoid Overstuffing: While it’s tempting to load up on fillings, be cautious. Overstuffing can lead to a messy sandwich that’s difficult to eat, so keep layers moderate.

• Quality Ingredients Matter: Prioritize high-quality ingredients like extra virgin olive oil and fresh focaccia. They make a noticeable difference in taste and overall experience.

• Serve Fresh: For best flavor and texture, enjoy your Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich immediately after assembly. If making ahead, wait to add arugula and burrata until serving.

Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich Recipe FAQs

What type of focaccia should I use for this sandwich?
Absolutely! For the best results, look for thick, fresh focaccia, whether homemade or from a quality bakery. A well-made focaccia will provide the soft structure necessary to hold all those delicious fillings and add a wonderful texture to your Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich.

How should I store leftovers of the Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich?
If you have any leftovers, wrap your Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich tightly in foil, or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, be mindful that the texture of the focaccia may soften over time. To enjoy it at its best, you may want to reheat it!

Can I freeze the Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich?
Very much! To freeze your sandwich, first, assemble it without adding the arugula and burrata. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. It will keep in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes. Finally, add fresh arugula and burrata to finish!

Why is my burrata not spreading well?
It’s essential to let your burrata come to room temperature before using it. I recommend letting it sit out for at least 30 minutes to achieve the perfect creamy consistency. This will make spreading much easier, enhancing your Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich with that rich, comforting texture everyone loves!

Can I customize the ingredients in this sandwich?
Absolutely! The beauty of the Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich is its versatility. You can easily swap burrata for mozzarella for a firmer texture, replace prosciutto with turkey or a vegetarian option, or add roasted vegetables or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra flavor boost. Feel free to let your creativity shine!