Gourmet Italian Ham & Swiss Panini
Elevate your lunch experience with this Gourmet Italian Ham & Swiss Panini. Inspired by Rachael Ray's classic, this recipe features perfectly toasted Italian bread filled with layers of thinly sliced ham, creamy Swiss cheese, and fresh basil leaves. Drizzled with aromatic garlic-infused olive oil, each bite delivers a delightful combination of rich flavors and textures. Ideal for a quick weekday lunch or a weekend snack, this panini will have everyone raving about it!
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Italian bread
1 loaf (sliced diagonally into 8 slices)
butter
3 tablespoons (softened)
ham
4 ounces (thinly sliced)
Swiss cheese
4 ounces (sliced)
fresh basil leaves
4 (fresh, whole)
olive oil
1/4 cup
garlic clove
1 (minced)
Instructions
1
Start by preparing the garlic-infused olive oil: In a small saucepan, combine the olive oil and minced garlic. Heat gently over low heat, allowing the flavors to meld, but do not let it boil. Once warm, remove from heat and set aside.
2
Slice the Italian bread diagonally into 8 pieces. Spread softened butter generously on one side of each slice.
3
Place the sliced ham on a microwave-safe dish and heat it in the microwave until warmed through, about 30-45 seconds. This step helps remove excess moisture that can make the sandwiches soggy.
4
Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. While the skillet is heating, assemble the sandwiches: On the unbuttered side of one slice of bread, layer the ham, basil leaves, and Swiss cheese. Top with another slice of bread, buttered side facing out.
5
Brush the outside of the assembled sandwiches with the garlic-infused olive oil for added flavor.
6
Carefully place the sandwiches in the preheated skillet or griddle. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7
Remove from the skillet, let sit for a minute, then slice in half and serve warm.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Gourmet Italian Ham & Swiss Panini?
It is a toasted sandwich featuring Italian bread, thinly sliced ham, Swiss cheese, and fresh basil, finished with a garlic-infused olive oil.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What type of bread should I use for this panini?
The recipe calls for one loaf of Italian bread sliced diagonally into 8 pieces.
How do I prepare the garlic-infused olive oil?
Combine olive oil and minced garlic in a small saucepan and heat gently over low heat without boiling.
Why do I need to microwave the ham?
Heating the ham in the microwave helps remove excess moisture, which prevents the sandwiches from becoming soggy.
What kind of cheese is used in this recipe?
This panini uses 4 ounces of sliced Swiss cheese.
Is fresh basil necessary?
Yes, the recipe uses 4 fresh, whole basil leaves to provide a distinct aromatic flavor.
How long does it take to cook the panini in the skillet?
The sandwiches should be cooked for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Can I make this in a panini press?
Yes, while the instructions specify a skillet or griddle, a panini press can also be used to achieve a toasted finish.
What is the purpose of the butter in this recipe?
Softened butter is spread on the bread to help achieve a golden, toasted texture.
How much olive oil is required?
You will need 1/4 cup of olive oil.
How should the garlic be prepared?
The recipe requires one garlic clove to be minced.
Is this recipe inspired by a specific chef?
Yes, this recipe is inspired by a classic version from Rachael Ray.
What is the recommended heat level for the skillet?
The skillet or griddle should be preheated over medium heat.
Can I prepare this for a quick lunch?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick meal and is ideal for a weekday lunch or weekend snack.
What prevents the sandwich from being dry?
The combination of melted Swiss cheese, butter, and the garlic-infused oil ensures a moist and flavorful result.
How many slices of ham are needed?
The recipe specifies 4 ounces of thinly sliced ham.
Should the bread be buttered on both sides?
No, butter is spread on one side of each slice, and the garlic oil is brushed on the outside.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 main ingredients: Italian bread, butter, ham, Swiss cheese, fresh basil, olive oil, and garlic.
Is this a comfort food recipe?
Yes, it is categorized as comfort food and a quick snack.
What should I do if the bread is browning too fast?
If the bread browns before the cheese melts, slightly lower the heat of your skillet.
How do I assemble the layers?
Layer the ham, basil leaves, and Swiss cheese on the unbuttered side of the bread.
Can I use a different type of ham?
While the recipe suggests thinly sliced ham, you can use any variety of Italian-style ham you prefer.
How do I serve the panini?
Let the panini sit for a minute after cooking, then slice it in half and serve while warm.
What is the total number of bread slices used for 4 servings?
The recipe uses 8 slices of bread to make 4 full sandwiches.
Does the recipe include nutritional information?
The provided data does not specify exact calorie, fat, or carbohydrate counts.
Is the garlic oil applied before or after cooking?
The garlic oil is brushed onto the outside of the assembled sandwiches before they are placed in the skillet.
What is the category of this recipe?
It is categorized under Lunch/Snacks.
How much butter is needed?
The recipe requires 3 tablespoons of softened butter.
Can I use dried basil?
The recipe specifically calls for fresh basil leaves for the best flavor and texture.