Save 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 recipe quickly became a family favorite with its perfect balance of flavors and textures.
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 and Prepare:
- 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.
Save My family loves gathering around for these sandwiches, enjoying each gooey, flavorful bite together.
Additional Tips
Use a cast iron skillet for best grilling results to get a perfect golden crust every time.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a green salad or tomato soup for a complete meal.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers wrapped in foil in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet for best texture.
Save Enjoy this delicious, easy-to-make sandwich that satisfies both cravings and nutrition needs.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of cheese works best in these stacks?
Provolone melts smoothly, but mozzarella or Swiss are tasty alternatives that create a creamy, gooey texture.
- → Can I use a homemade pesto for these stacks?
Yes, homemade basil pesto adds fresh flavor, and nut-free versions using seeds can accommodate allergies.
- → How should zucchini be prepared for optimal texture?
Sliced lengthwise and roasted with olive oil until golden and tender ensures they add moisture without sogginess.
- → Is there a way to make these stacks vegetarian?
Omitting the turkey and adding extra roasted vegetables creates a satisfying vegetarian layered sandwich.
- → What bread types are recommended?
Sourdough or whole-grain bread provide great structure and flavor; gluten-free bread can be used if needed.