Pin A vibrant and flavorful twist on classic grilled cheese, featuring layers of roasted zucchini, sliced turkey, melty cheese, and fresh pesto, all stacked and grilled for a deliciously gooey, healthy sandwich alternative.
This sandwich quickly became a favorite in my home for its combination of fresh vegetables and melty cheese, perfect for a comforting yet healthy meal.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 2 medium zucchinis, sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch-thick strips; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Proteins & Dairy: 8 slices deli turkey breast (about 200 g); 4 slices provolone cheese (or mozzarella or Swiss)
- Spreads & Sauces: 4 tablespoons basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- Bread: 4 slices sourdough or whole-grain bread
- Butter: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Instructions
- Preheat:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roast Zucchini:
- Arrange zucchini slices on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and tender.
- Apply Pesto:
- Spread 1/2 tablespoon of pesto on each bread slice.
- Assemble Stacks:
- On a bread slice, layer roasted zucchini, 2 slices of turkey, 1 slice of cheese, and another drizzle of pesto if desired. Top with a second slice of bread, pesto side down.
- Butter Sandwiches:
- Lightly butter the outer sides of each sandwich.
- Grill:
- Heat a large nonstick skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Grill each stack for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until bread is golden and cheese is melted.
- Serve:
- Remove from heat, let rest 1 minute, then slice in half and serve warm.
Pin My family loves gathering around this sandwich on cool evenings; it always sparks joy and wholesome satisfaction.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a simple green salad or tomato soup for a complete meal.
Storage
Leftovers can be wrapped tightly and refrigerated for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet for best texture.
Variations
Try different cheeses like mozzarella or Swiss and add roasted red peppers for extra flavor.
Pin This pesto turkey zucchini grilled cheese is a delicious, nutritious twist on a classic comfort food that pleases all ages.
Recipe Q&A
- → How do you prepare the zucchini for this dish?
Sliced lengthwise into thin strips, the zucchini is drizzled with olive oil, seasoned with salt and pepper, then roasted until golden and tender to enhance its flavor.
- → What type of cheese works best here?
Provolone is recommended for its meltability and mild flavor, but mozzarella or Swiss can be good alternatives.
- → Can I use alternatives to turkey?
Yes, chicken or extra roasted vegetables can replace turkey for different protein options or a vegetarian variation.
- → How should these stacks be cooked for best results?
Lightly butter the outside and grill each stack on medium heat for a few minutes per side until the bread is golden and cheese fully melted.
- → Are there any allergy-friendly modifications?
Use gluten-free bread and substitute traditional pesto with versions made from sunflower or pumpkin seeds to avoid nuts.
- → What sides complement this dish well?
Simple green salads or tomato soups pair nicely, balancing freshness with the rich, melted cheese and savory turkey.