If you are looking for a sandwich that perfectly balances hearty flavors and fresh ingredients, the Trader Joe’s Sun-Dried Tomato Focaccia Turkey Sandwich Recipe is an absolute must-try. This sandwich combines the rich, slightly tangy taste of sun-dried tomato focaccia bread with tender deli turkey, vibrant greens, and a luscious pesto mayo that ties everything together beautifully. Whether you’re packing lunch or craving a quick yet impressive meal, this recipe brings together simple elements for a satisfying, flavorful bite every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is a celebration of straightforward, vibrant ingredients that each play an essential role in creating the perfect sandwich. Every component adds to the flavor, texture, or visual appeal, making the end result as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
- Trader Joe’s Sun-Dried Tomato Focaccia: This bread is the star, with its soft crumb and bursts of tangy sun-dried tomato that elevate the sandwich’s flavor profile.
- Deli turkey (7 oz package): Tender and lean, turkey adds hearty protein and mild earthiness to balance the sandwich.
- Large tomato, thinly sliced: Juicy and fresh, tomatoes bring vibrant color and a burst of acidity that lifts the overall taste.
- Greens (sprouts, microgreens, or spinach): Adding a crisp texture and bright, leafy flavor, these greens make the sandwich feel lighter and more refreshing.
- Red onion slices: Thinly sliced for just the right amount of sharpness and a hint of crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft bread and turkey.
- Mayonnaise (1/4 cup): Creamy and smooth, mayo gives the sandwich a rich base to meld the other flavors.
- Pesto (1/4 cup): Bursting with herbs and pine nuts, pesto adds an aromatic, savory twist that makes this sandwich truly special.
How to Make Trader Joe’s Sun-Dried Tomato Focaccia Turkey Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Toast the Focaccia
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toast the Trader Joe’s Sun-Dried Tomato Focaccia loaf for 5–8 minutes until it develops a slight crisp on the outside. This step helps give the bread structure so your sandwich doesn’t become soggy and adds a delightful crunch that contrasts with the soft fillings.
Step 2: Prepare the Pesto Mayo
While the bread is toasting, mix together 1/4 cup mayonnaise and 1/4 cup pesto in a small bowl. This creamy pesto mayo will be your sandwich’s secret weapon, infusing every bite with herbal richness and smoothness that perfectly complements the focaccia and turkey.
Step 3: Slice the Focaccia Horizontally
Once toasted, carefully slice the focaccia loaf horizontally to create a top and bottom piece. Set the top aside while you build the sandwich. This allows you to layer the ingredients without squishing the bread or losing any of that crispy texture you just achieved.
Step 4: Build the Sandwich
Spread a generous layer of your homemade pesto mayo on the bottom slice of focaccia. Next, layer on the deli turkey evenly, followed by the thin tomato slices, your choice of greens, and a few slices of red onion. Add another dollop of pesto mayo on top before placing the focaccia’s top piece back on. This layering creates a complex symphony of flavors and textures in every mouthful.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Gently press the sandwich down to help everything meld together, then cut into six manageable pieces that are perfect for sharing or savoring as a satisfying lunch. Now you have a beautiful, full-flavored sandwich ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Trader Joe’s Sun-Dried Tomato Focaccia Turkey Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
To enhance the sensory appeal of this sandwich, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley on the side. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper or a tiny drizzle of olive oil on your plate can also elevate its presentation and flavor subtly.
Side Dishes
This sandwich pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides. Crisp cucumber salad, a handful of kettle-cooked chips, or even a simple bowl of mixed fruit complements the savory richness of the sandwich without overwhelming your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the sandwich open-faced on a rustic wooden board or stack the ingredients in a clear container for a pretty, layered look if you’re taking it on the go. Wrapping each piece in parchment paper tied with twine adds a charming, picnic-ready vibe that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover sandwich pieces tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The focaccia may lose some of its crispness, but the flavors will meld even more deliciously over time. Consume within 24 hours for the best texture.
Freezing
This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh, so freezing is not recommended. However, if you must freeze, separate ingredients before assembling, freeze the turkey and pesto mayo separately, and thaw before reassembling to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
If you want a warm sandwich, reheat the focaccia bread alone in the oven briefly to crisp it up again. Add the cold ingredients afterward to preserve freshness. Avoid microwaving the entire sandwich as it can make the bread soggy and the turkey rubbery.
FAQs
Can I substitute the turkey with another protein?
Absolutely! Roast chicken, ham, or even a plant-based deli slice work well and add variety without compromising the sandwich’s delicious profile.
What can I use if I don’t have pesto?
You can substitute pesto with basil mayonnaise, a tapenade, or even a mix of olive oil and herbs for a different but tasty twist.
Is there a way to make this sandwich vegan?
Yes, swap the turkey for a plant-based deli meat, use vegan mayonnaise, and ensure your pesto is nut-free and dairy-free or make your own vegan pesto at home.
How do I keep the sandwich from getting soggy?
To avoid sogginess, always toast the focaccia and spread the pesto mayo just before eating. Adding greens and tomatoes last helps maintain texture.
Can I prepare this sandwich for a group or party?
Definitely! This recipe scales easily, and cutting the sandwich into smaller pieces makes it perfect for sharing at gatherings or potlucks.
Final Thoughts
The Trader Joe’s Sun-Dried Tomato Focaccia Turkey Sandwich Recipe is one of those delightful meals that proves how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for this combo again and again, whether for a quick lunch or an impressive snack to share. Go ahead and make it your own—you won’t regret bringing this flavorful, satisfying sandwich into your kitchen repertoire.
Print
Trader Joe’s Sun-Dried Tomato Focaccia Turkey Sandwich Recipe
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A flavorful and easy-to-make Turkey Sandwich using Trader Joe’s Sun-Dried Tomato Focaccia, layered with deli turkey, fresh tomato slices, greens, red onion, and a creamy pesto mayo spread. Perfectly toasted focaccia adds a crispy texture and rich sun-dried tomato flavor to this hearty, satisfying sandwich.
Ingredients
Sandwich Ingredients
- 1 loaf of Trader Joe’s Sun-Dried Tomato Focaccia
- 1 package (7 oz) deli turkey
- 1 large tomato, thinly sliced
- A handful of greens (e.g., sprouts, microgreens, spinach)
- A few slices of red onion
Spread Ingredients
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup pesto
Instructions
- Preheat and Toast Focaccia: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the Trader Joe’s Sun-Dried Tomato Focaccia loaf in the oven and toast for 5–8 minutes until it becomes slightly crispy to give the sandwich a firm and crunchy base.
- Prepare Pesto Mayo: In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup mayonnaise and 1/4 cup pesto, mixing thoroughly to create a flavorful pesto mayo spread that will add creaminess and herbaceous notes to the sandwich.
- Slice the Focaccia: Carefully slice the toasted focaccia loaf horizontally into two halves, taking care to keep the top piece aside for later assembly.
- Assemble the Sandwich Layers: On the bottom half of the focaccia, spread a generous layer of the prepared pesto mayo. Next, add a layer of deli turkey slices evenly on top. Follow with thinly sliced tomato, a handful of greens such as sprouts or spinach, and a few slices of red onion. Add a final thin layer of pesto mayo on top for extra moisture and flavor.
- Complete and Serve: Place the top half of the focaccia back on the sandwich, gently pressing down to hold all the layers together. Cut the sandwich into 6 pieces to serve, making it easy for sharing or portion control.
Notes
- For a vegetarian variation, substitute turkey with grilled vegetables or a plant-based deli slice.
- To add extra flavor, you can lightly drizzle some olive oil or balsamic glaze inside the focaccia before assembling.
- Use fresh, high-quality deli turkey for the best taste and texture.
- Mayonnaise can be replaced with Greek yogurt for a lighter spread option.
- Serve immediately after assembling to maintain the crunch of the toasted focaccia.
