Stanley Tucci’s Favourite Sandwich
Stanley Tucci’s Favorite Italian Sandwich: A Gourmet Twist on a Classic
Stanley Tucci is not just a celebrated actor but also a passionate food lover, cookbook author, and Italian cuisine enthusiast. Among the many delicious dishes he has showcased, one sandwich stands out as his personal favorite. It’s a simple yet gourmet grilled sandwich, packed with bold Italian flavors, creamy cheese, and perfectly crisped bread.
Whether you’re a foodie, a fan of Tucci’s travels in Italy, or just looking for the ultimate grilled sandwich, this recipe is a must-try!
Why You’ll Love This Sandwich
✔ Simple Yet Elegant – Made with just a few high-quality ingredients.
✔ A Perfect Balance of Flavors – The combination of savory, creamy, and crispy is irresistible.
✔ A Taste of Italy – Uses classic Italian ingredients like pesto, mozzarella, and soppressata.
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for lunch or a snack.
✔ Inspired by a Culinary Icon – If Stanley Tucci loves it, you know it’s good!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Sandwich:
- 2 slices Italian sourdough bread (or ciabatta)
- 2 tablespoons pesto (homemade or store-bought)
- 3-4 slices soppressata (or any high-quality Italian cured meat)
- 2-3 slices fresh mozzarella
- ½ cup sautéed greens (such as spinach, kale, or Swiss chard)
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil (for grilling)
How to Make Stanley Tucci’s Favorite Sandwich
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- If using fresh greens, sauté them in a pan with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt until tender.
2. Assemble the Sandwich
- Spread pesto on both slices of bread.
- Layer slices of soppressata, followed by fresh mozzarella.
- Add the sautéed greens on top.
- Close the sandwich and gently press down.
3. Grill to Perfection
- Heat a pan over medium heat and melt butter or drizzle olive oil.
- Place the sandwich in the pan and grill for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing slightly with a spatula.
- Flip and cook until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted.
4. Serve & Enjoy!
- Slice the sandwich in half and serve immediately!
Best Ways to Enjoy This Italian Grilled Sandwich
✔ With a Side of Tomato Soup – The perfect comforting pairing.
✔ With a Glass of Italian Wine – A light Chianti or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully.
✔ With a Fresh Salad – Try arugula with balsamic and parmesan.
✔ As a Snack or Appetizer – Cut into smaller pieces for a gourmet party bite.
✔ With Extra Pesto for Dipping – Because you can never have too much pesto!
Pro Tips for the Best Sandwich
🔹 Use Good Quality Bread – A rustic Italian sourdough or ciabatta works best.
🔹 Toast Slowly – Cooking on medium heat ensures even crispiness and melted cheese.
🔹 Customize the Fillings – Add roasted peppers, artichokes, or caramelized onions for extra flavor.
🔹 Try a Panini Press – For an even more pressed and crispy texture.
🔹 Use Buffalo Mozzarella – For an authentic Italian taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Soppressata? Can I Use Another Meat?
Soppressata is a dry-cured Italian salami that is slightly spicy and deeply flavorful. You can substitute with:
- Prosciutto – For a lighter, saltier bite.
- Spicy Capicola – If you love heat.
- Regular Salami – A good everyday alternative.
Can I Make This Sandwich Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the soppressata for roasted mushrooms or grilled eggplant for a delicious veggie version.
Can I Use Store-Bought Pesto?
Yes! But if you want an extra fresh and flavorful pesto, making it at home is worth it. Just blend:
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts (or almonds)
- 1 clove garlic
- A pinch of salt and pepper
What’s the Best Way to Store and Reheat?
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a pan over low heat for a few minutes to keep it crispy.
Final Thoughts: A Celebrity-Approved Italian Sandwich!
This Stanley Tucci-inspired Italian grilled sandwich is everything a gourmet sandwich should be – crispy, melty, savory, and packed with bold flavors. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch or an elegant snack, it’s a dish that feels decadent yet simple.
Try it today and enjoy a taste of Italy at home! 🥪🇮🇹
