Savory Apple & Honey Ham Cheddar Panini Delight
Indulge in the rich flavors of our Savory Apple & Honey Ham Cheddar Panini Delight! This irresistible sandwich is an exquisite blend of sweet and savory, featuring thinly sliced apples nestled between thick layers of sharp cheddar and delicately honey-roasted ham. Smothered in a luscious apple butter, this panini is perfectly toasted to golden perfection, making for a delightful crunch with every bite. Dressed with aromatic thyme and rosemary, this one-dish meal is sure to impress at any lunch or dinner gathering. Serve it warm and watch it disappear—it's the ultimate comfort food combining wholesome ingredients with an OMG factor that'll have your taste buds dancing!
1
Servings
450
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Whole grain bread
2 slices (slice)
Apple
1 (sliced thin (preferably a sweet variety with soft skin))
Thick cheddar cheese
1 slice (slice)
Honey-roasted ham
2-3 slices (thinly sliced)
Apple butter
1-2 tablespoons (sweet brand)
Thyme
pinch (dried)
Rosemary
pinch (dried)
Instructions
1
Start by coring the apple and slicing it thinly, keeping the skin on for added flavor and texture.
2
Lay one slice of whole grain bread on a clean surface and place the thick slice of cheddar cheese on top.
3
On the other slice of bread, layer the thin slices of honey-roasted ham evenly.
4
Arrange 5-6 thin apple slices over the cheese to create a deliciously fruity layer.
5
Spread 1-2 tablespoons of sweet apple butter evenly across the ham layer.
6
Carefully enclose the sandwich, bringing the two slices of bread together.
7
Sprinkle a pinch of dried thyme and rosemary on both outer sides of the bread, pressing it in gently to enhance the aroma.
8
Preheat a Panini press or George Foreman grill. Place the sandwich inside and grill until the cheese is melting and both sides are toasty golden brown, about 3-5 minutes.
9
Remove from the grill, slice in half if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy your delightful panini!
Nutrition Information
20g
Fat
45g
Carbs
25g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Savory Apple & Honey Ham Cheddar Panini Delight?
It is a sweet and savory sandwich featuring honey-roasted ham, sharp cheddar cheese, thinly sliced apples, and sweet apple butter, toasted to perfection.
What kind of bread is recommended for this panini?
The recipe calls for two slices of whole grain bread to provide a wholesome base and a satisfying crunch.
Which apple variety should I use?
A sweet variety with soft skin is preferred, though any crisp apple will work well with the savory ham and cheese.
Can I substitute the cheddar cheese?
While thick sharp cheddar is recommended, you can use Swiss, provolone, or brie for a different flavor profile.
Do I need to peel the apples?
No, it is recommended to keep the skin on for added flavor, texture, and nutritional value.
What type of ham is used in this recipe?
The recipe specifically uses thinly sliced honey-roasted ham to complement the sweetness of the apple and apple butter.
What is apple butter and where does it go?
Apple butter is a highly concentrated form of apple sauce; it should be spread evenly across the ham layer before closing the sandwich.
Which herbs are used to season the bread?
A pinch of dried thyme and dried rosemary are sprinkled on the outer sides of the bread to enhance the aroma during grilling.
How do I cook the panini if I do not have a panini press?
You can use a George Foreman grill or a standard skillet with a heavy pan on top to press the sandwich while cooking over medium heat.
How long does it take to grill the sandwich?
It typically takes about 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and the bread is a toasty golden brown.
How many calories are in one serving?
One serving of this panini contains approximately 450 calories.
What is the protein content of this recipe?
This sandwich is quite hearty, providing 25g of protein per serving.
Is this a quick meal to prepare?
Yes, it is categorized as a quick and easy one-dish meal, perfect for a fast lunch or dinner.
How much fat is in this panini?
There are 20g of fat per serving in this recipe.
What is the carbohydrate count?
The sandwich contains 45g of carbohydrates per serving.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the ham and add more apple slices or a meat substitute to make it vegetarian-friendly.
What should I serve as a side dish?
It pairs wonderfully with a light side salad, a cup of tomato soup, or simple potato chips.
How do I ensure the cheese melts properly?
Using a thick slice of cheddar and grilling the sandwich for the full 3-5 minutes in a closed press ensures a perfect melt.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, you can use finely chopped fresh thyme and rosemary, though you may need to use slightly more to achieve the same flavor intensity.
How many apple slices go into one sandwich?
It is recommended to arrange 5 to 6 thin apple slices over the cheese layer.
Can I use gluten-free bread?
Absolutely, simply swap the whole grain bread for your favorite gluten-free variety.
Is this sandwich suitable for kids?
Yes, the sweet apple and honey ham flavors make it a hit with children and adults alike.
Can I prep the ingredients in advance?
You can slice the apples and portion the ham and cheese ahead of time, but assemble and grill just before eating for the best texture.
What makes the bread extra aromatic?
Pressing the dried thyme and rosemary directly into the outside of the bread before grilling releases the essential oils for a better aroma.
Is apple butter mandatory?
It provides the signature sweetness, but if unavailable, you could use a thin layer of honey or apricot preserves.
Does the recipe include fiber or sodium data?
The current nutritional data provided does not specify fiber, sodium, or cholesterol amounts.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This specific recipe is scaled for 1 serving.
What category does this recipe fall into?
It is categorized as a panini or sandwich, ideal for comfort food and one-dish meals.
Can I add more ham if I want?
Yes, you can adjust the honey-roasted ham to 3 slices if you prefer a meatier sandwich.
Is this a good recipe for a lunch gathering?
Definitely; it is designed to impress and is quick to scale up for multiple guests.