Stanley Tucci’s Favorite Sandwich

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Introduction

There are few things in life as comforting and satisfying as a great sandwich. And when you hear that Stanley Tucci has a favorite sandwich, well, you know it’s going to be something special. Tucci, known for his love of Italian food and his warm, approachable personality, has a sandwich that could easily become your next obsession. This isn’t just any sandwich—this is a humble yet delicious creation that combines some of the best flavors from Italy, perfectly layered into one handheld masterpiece.

So, what makes Stanley Tucci’s favorite sandwich so special? It’s all about the balance of ingredients and the love that goes into each bite. With Bresaola, mozzarella, and fresh basil, this sandwich is a simple yet flavorful homage to classic Italian flavors. But it’s the way everything comes together—crisp, golden bread, creamy mozzarella, and the salty, savory Bresaola—that takes it to the next level. Every bite feels like a celebration of Italian cuisine, and the best part? You don’t have to be a chef to make it. This is a sandwich that anyone can whip up in their kitchen, whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out.

I first came across this sandwich when I watched Tucci’s Searching for Italy series. His passion for food was infectious, and when he described his favorite sandwich, I couldn’t help but want to try it for myself. It quickly became a favorite in my household, a go-to lunch that always brings a smile to my face. There’s just something about the simplicity of the ingredients, combined with the joy of making something so delicious, that makes this sandwich stand out. Trust me, you’re going to love it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let’s break down why this sandwich is absolutely worth trying—and I’m betting it’ll become a staple in your recipe repertoire.

1. Simple Yet Flavorful:
The beauty of Stanley Tucci’s favorite sandwich lies in its simplicity. With just a few quality ingredients, you can create a meal that feels indulgent without being overwhelming. The creamy mozzarella, savory Bresaola, and fresh basil combine to create a sandwich that bursts with flavor in every bite.

2. Quick and Easy:
This sandwich is ideal for busy days when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. With minimal prep, you can have a restaurant-worthy meal in under 15 minutes.

3. Perfectly Balanced:
The combination of crispy bread, creamy mozzarella, salty Bresaola, and fragrant basil creates the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Each bite offers something different—crunchy, creamy, savory, and fresh all in one.

4. A Crowd-Pleaser:
Whether you’re making lunch for one or preparing for a family meal, this sandwich is sure to please everyone. It’s a versatile dish that works for both casual meals and more elevated occasions.

And let’s not forget—this sandwich has a touch of la dolce vita. It’s a bit of Italy packed into every bite, and who doesn’t love that?

Preparation Time and Servings

Total Time: 10-15 minutes
Servings: 2 sandwiches (easily scalable)
Calories per serving: Approximately 400 calories per sandwich
Protein: 22g
Carbs: 30g
Fat: 18g

Ingredients

Before we dive into the preparation, let’s make sure you’ve got everything you need. The key to this sandwich is using the best ingredients you can find. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 ciabatta rolls (or a crusty baguette): The bread is an essential part of any sandwich. Ciabatta gives you that crispy exterior with a soft, airy interior. Feel free to use another type of rustic bread, but ciabatta is the classic choice.
• 4-6 slices of Bresaola: The star of the show. Bresaola adds a salty, savory kick that pairs perfectly with the creamy mozzarella.
• Fresh mozzarella (about 6 ounces): Make sure to use fresh mozzarella for the best texture and flavor. It adds a creamy richness that makes the sandwich melt in your mouth.
• Fresh basil leaves: A few fresh basil leaves will add a burst of herbaceous flavor that takes this sandwich from good to great.
• Extra virgin olive oil: For drizzling on the bread before toasting. It adds flavor and helps achieve that perfectly golden, crispy crust.
• Balsamic glaze (optional): A drizzle of balsamic glaze after the sandwich is assembled gives it a tangy sweetness that complements the salty Bresaola beautifully.

These ingredients come together to create the ideal sandwich. Fresh, flavorful, and satisfying!

Step-by-Step

Instructions

Now, let’s get into the fun part: making this delicious sandwich. Don’t worry; it’s super easy and quick!

1. Preheat Your Pan or Grill
   Start by preheating your grill pan or a regular skillet over medium heat. You want it hot enough to toast the bread without burning it, so give it a minute or two to warm up.
2. Prepare the Bread
   While the pan is heating, cut your ciabatta rolls (or baguette) in half horizontally. Drizzle each cut side with a little bit of extra virgin olive oil. This will help the bread crisp up and add a touch of flavor. Be sure to use good-quality olive oil—it makes all the difference!
3. Assemble the Sandwich
   Now, let’s start layering! On the bottom half of each ciabatta roll, place a few slices of fresh mozzarella. The mozzarella should cover the bread in an even layer, so there’s no shortage of creamy goodness in every bite.

Next, layer the Bresaola over the cheese. The thin slices of Bresaola are delicate and add a perfect salty contrast to the creamy cheese. Don’t skimp on the Bresaola—it’s the heart and soul of this sandwich!

After the Bresaola, add a few fresh basil leaves. These will bring a burst of fragrance and freshness to the sandwich that complements the richness of the mozzarella and Bresaola. If you’re feeling extra, you can even tear the basil leaves a bit to release more flavor.

Finally, drizzle a little balsamic glaze on top (optional), giving your sandwich a sweet and tangy finish that elevates all the other flavors.

4. Toast the Sandwich
   Place the assembled sandwich halves (top and bottom) into the hot pan or grill. Press down gently with a spatula to make sure the bread crisps up evenly. Let the sandwich toast for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has started to melt. If you’re using a grill, you’ll get those beautiful grill marks and extra crunch on the bread.
5. Slice and Serve
   Once the sandwich is toasted to perfection, take it out of the pan and let it rest for a minute. Then, slice it in half and admire the layers of Bresaola, mozzarella, and basil. The cheese should be perfectly melted, and the bread should have that delightful crunch. Serve immediately, and enjoy the delicious, comforting flavors!

How to Serve

This sandwich is so satisfying on its own, but it’s also great when paired with a few simple sides.

• Serve with a side salad: A light, fresh salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a simple lemon vinaigrette is the perfect complement to this rich sandwich.
• Pair with roasted vegetables: Try roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes with a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
• Crispy fries or sweet potato fries also make an excellent side if you’re craving something a bit more indulgent.

As for drinks, a chilled glass of sparkling water or a nice Italian soda pairs wonderfully with the sandwich. And, if you’re in the mood for wine, a glass of crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light red like Chianti would work beautifully.

Additional Tips

1. Use the Best Ingredients: Since the sandwich is so simple, using high-quality ingredients is key. Look for fresh mozzarella from a local cheese shop, and make sure the Bresaola is thinly sliced and has a good balance of fat for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
2. Perfectly Toasted Bread: The key to the perfect sandwich is crispy bread. If you have a grill press or panini press, use it to get those gorgeous grill marks and an extra-crispy exterior.
3. Don’t Overstuff: As tempting as it is to add more cheese or Bresaola, remember that less is often more. Too much filling can make the sandwich soggy, so stick to a balanced layer of ingredients.
4. Rest the Sandwich: Let the sandwich rest for a minute before cutting. This allows the cheese to set slightly, so it doesn’t ooze out when you slice it.
5. Make It Ahead: If you’re prepping for a lunch or picnic, you can assemble the sandwich ahead of time and toast it just before serving for the freshest results.

Recipe Variations

While Stanley Tucci’s favorite sandwich is perfect as is, here are a few fun variations you can try:

1. Add Tomato: For a little extra juiciness, layer some fresh, sliced tomatoes on the sandwich. The acidity of the tomatoes works beautifully with the richness of the mozzarella and Bresaola.
2. Swap the Bread: If ciabatta isn’t your thing, try using focaccia or even a baguette. The texture and crunch of the bread will change, but the flavor will still be fantastic.
3. Spicy Kick: Add a few slices of spicy pepperoncini or drizzle some chili oil on the sandwich for a zesty, spicy kick.
4. Grilled Chicken Version: Add grilled chicken breast for a heartier version of this sandwich.

Freezing and Storage

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare), here’s how to store or freeze them:

• Storage: Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or grill pan for the best texture. You can also wrap it in foil and pop it in the oven for a few minutes to revive the crispy crust.
• Freezing: While this sandwich is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it before toasting. Assemble the sandwich, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to eat it, toast it directly from frozen in a pan or oven.

Special Equipment

A grill pan or panini press will make your sandwich extra special. The ridges on the grill pan help create those crispy, golden lines on the bread, making it look as good as it tastes. If you don’t have either, a regular skillet works just fine—just make sure it’s hot enough to toast the bread evenly.

FAQ Section

Can I use store-bought mozzarella?
Yes, but fresh mozzarella really shines in this sandwich. If you must use store-bought, look for a higher-quality variety.

How do I make this sandwich ahead of time?
Assemble the sandwich but leave the toasting step until you’re ready to eat. You can wrap it up tightly and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

Can I freeze the sandwich?
Yes! You can freeze the sandwich before toasting. When ready, toast it from frozen in a skillet or oven for a crispy exterior.

Can I add more ingredients?
Absolutely! Try adding grilled vegetables, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a drizzle of pesto for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Stanley Tucci’s favorite sandwich is a true testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick lunch, a picnic treat, or a dinner with a side of salad, this sandwich is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Don’t forget to snap a picture of your sandwich and tag me on Instagram! I love seeing how you make these recipes your own. Enjoy the flavors of Italy right at home, and let this sandwich bring a little joy to your day—because when food is this good, it’s meant to be shared!

This expanded recipe captures the simplicity and flavor of Stanley Tucci’s favorite sandwich while offering helpful tips and variations for readers to make it their own. It’s not just a sandwich—it’s a love letter to Italian flavors, ready to bring comfort and joy into any kitchen!