Email to Cat      

Pressed Ham Sandwiches

Source of Recipe

From "Come on Over!" by Elizabeth Heiskell


Recipe Introduction

"One of the challenges with a lunch-box lunch is that you are handing over this lovely lunch creation to a child to manage for five hours. I can only imagine what happens after they leave the house. I am pretty sure there is a lot of shoving going on — into a desk, a locker, or a backpack. The end result can only be tragic. That's why my kids and I love this pressed ham sandwich. It's already shoved, mashed, and pressed — which forces the vinaigrette into the ciabatta, making it extra delicious. Any future shoving, mashing, or pressing only makes it better. The key to this sandwich is the bread. A ciabatta that has a tough exterior and soft interior is just perfect, so the bread will soak up the vinaigrette but not turn into a mushy mess. Not only can you make these sandwiches the night before, it's a must."

List of Ingredients

â—¦ ¼ cup red wine vinegar
â—¦ 1 teaspoon Cavender's Greek seasoning
â—¦ ½ cup olive oil
â—¦ 1 (12-inch) loaf ciabatta bread, halved horizontally, insides scooped out and discarded
â—¦ Optional additional toppings: fresh basil leaves, chopped or sliced sun-dried tomatoes, olive tapenade, Dijon mustard, pesto, sliced pickles
â—¦ 1 pound sliced deli ham
â—¦ 4 ounces sliced provolone, Swiss, or muenster cheese


Recipe

In a small bowl, combine the vinegar and Greek seasoning, then slowly whisk in the olive oil. Brush the vinaigrette over the cut insides of the ciabatta. If using additional toppings, add these to the bottom half of the ciabatta now.

Layer the ham and cheese on the bottom half of the ciabatta; cover with the top half. Wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and set it on a small cutting board or baking dish. Place a heavy object such as a cast iron pan, heavy book, or brick on top of the sandwich. Refrigerate overnight or for at least 6 hours.

Remove from fridge, cut into individual sandwiches, and serve; or pack for lunch.


Makes 4 large or 8 small sandwiches