Gourmet Grilled Mozzarella, Prosciutto & Fig Jam Delight
Indulge in the luxurious flavors of this Gourmet Grilled Mozzarella, Prosciutto & Fig Jam Delight sandwich. Perfect for a sumptuous lunch or an elegant snack, this recipe brings together the creaminess of fresh mozzarella, the savory richness of thinly sliced prosciutto, and the sweet complexity of fig jam—all nestled in perfectly toasted French or Italian rolls. Enjoy the contrasting textures and flavors that will leave you and your guests craving more. It's a simple yet sophisticated choice for any occasion, guaranteed to impress with minimal effort.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
soft French or Italian rolls
4 (Split each roll)
fresh mozzarella cheese
10-12 ounces (Thickly sliced)
prosciutto
8 ounces (Thinly sliced)
fig jam or fig preserves
1/4-1/2 cup (To taste)
soft butter
As needed (For spreading)
Instructions
1
Begin by splitting each roll horizontally to create a pocket for the fillings.
2
Layer generous slices of fresh mozzarella cheese on the bottom half of each roll, followed by a layer of prosciutto.
3
Spread the fig jam or fig preserves on the top half of each roll, adjusting the amount to your taste preference.
4
Carefully close the sandwiches, pressing down gently to secure the fillings.
5
Lightly butter the outsides of each sandwich for a golden, crispy finish.
6
Preheat a heavy nonstick skillet or panini press over medium-high heat until hot.
7
Place the sandwiches in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook in two batches.
8
To ensure even grilling, press down on the sandwiches with a spatula or weight (such as a skillet) to flatten them slightly.
9
Cook until the bread is beautifully golden and crisp, and the mozzarella cheese has melted, about 3-4 minutes per side. If using a panini press, follow the manufacturer's guidelines.
10
Once grilled to perfection, carefully remove the sandwiches and allow them to rest briefly before slicing.
11
Cut each sandwich diagonally and serve immediately, enjoying the delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Gourmet Grilled Mozzarella, Prosciutto & Fig Jam Delight?
It is a sophisticated grilled sandwich that combines the creamy texture of fresh mozzarella with the savory saltiness of prosciutto and the sweet depth of fig jam on toasted rolls.
What kind of bread is best for this recipe?
Soft French or Italian rolls are ideal as they provide a perfect balance of a crispy exterior and a soft interior when grilled.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While fresh mozzarella is recommended for its creaminess, you can substitute it with burrata, provolone, or even mild goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
What exactly is prosciutto?
Prosciutto is an Italian dry-cured ham that is usually thinly sliced and served raw, providing a delicate savory and salty element to the sandwich.
Where can I find fig jam or fig preserves?
Fig jam is commonly found in the jam and jelly aisle or the specialty cheese section of most well-stocked grocery stores.
Is there a vegetarian version of this sandwich?
Yes, simply omit the prosciutto to make a delicious vegetarian version; the combination of fig jam and mozzarella is excellent on its own.
How do I grill the sandwich without a panini press?
You can use a heavy nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and press down on the sandwich with a spatula or another heavy pan to achieve the same effect.
Can I use dried figs instead of jam?
Dried figs are quite chewy; if you don't have jam, it is better to simmer dried figs with a little water and sugar to create a paste or use fresh sliced figs with honey.
What is the secret to a golden, crispy finish?
Lightly buttering the outside of each roll before it hits the pan ensures a perfectly golden and crisp texture.
Can I add fresh greens to this sandwich?
Adding a handful of fresh arugula after grilling adds a wonderful peppery crunch that complements the sweet and salty flavors.
Should this sandwich be served warm?
Yes, it is best enjoyed immediately while the mozzarella is melted and the bread is still hot and crispy.
Can I prepare these sandwiches in advance?
You can assemble the fillings in the rolls ahead of time, but wait until you are ready to eat before buttering and grilling them.
What side dishes pair well with this sandwich?
A light arugula salad, a bowl of tomato soup, or simple salted potato chips are excellent accompaniments.
Is sourdough bread a good substitute?
Yes, sourdough bread works very well if you prefer a tangier flavor and a sturdier crust than French rolls.
How thick should I slice the fresh mozzarella?
Thick slices of about 1/4 to 1/2 inch are recommended to ensure there is plenty of melted cheese in every bite.
Should I use salted or unsalted butter for the rolls?
Either works, but salted butter can enhance the savory flavor of the toasted bread crust.
Can I use olive oil instead of butter?
Yes, brushing the outside of the rolls with olive oil will also create a crisp, flavorful crust.
What is a suitable replacement for prosciutto?
Thinly sliced deli ham, pancetta, or even salty bacon can be used as a substitute for prosciutto.
How many sandwiches does this recipe yield?
This recipe is specifically designed to make 4 individual servings.
How long does it take for the cheese to melt properly?
It typically takes about 3 to 4 minutes per side over medium-high heat for the cheese to melt and the bread to toast.
Can I cook these sandwiches in the oven?
Yes, you can bake them at 375 degrees Fahrenheit until the cheese is melted, though they won't have the same pressed, crispy texture as pan-grilled ones.
How do I keep the ingredients from sliding out?
Pressing down on the sandwich during the grilling process helps the melted cheese act as a glue to keep the ingredients in place.
Can I use fresh figs instead of jam?
Yes, you can use thinly sliced fresh figs, but you may want to drizzle a little honey over them to replicate the sweetness of the jam.
Does this sandwich taste sweet or savory?
It is a balanced combination of both, featuring the saltiness of the meat and cheese against the sweetness of the fig preserves.
Would balsamic glaze be a good addition?
A light drizzle of balsamic glaze inside the sandwich adds a pleasant acidity that cuts through the richness of the cheese and meat.
What size rolls are recommended?
Standard individual-sized sub rolls or large dinner rolls are perfect for this recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use your favorite gluten-free rolls or bread slices instead of the French or Italian rolls.
How do I tell when the sandwich is finished grilling?
The sandwich is ready when the bread is deep golden brown and the cheese has visibly started to melt and ooze slightly.
Is it necessary to grease the skillet?
If you have buttered the outside of the bread thoroughly, you do not need to add extra grease to the skillet.
Why is it important to let the sandwich rest before slicing?
Resting for just a minute allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to cut the sandwich without the fillings sliding out.