Savory Ham and Havarti Paninis
Enjoy a gourmet twist on a classic sandwich with these Savory Ham and Havarti Paninis. Perfectly toasted on the outside and gooey on the inside, this recipe takes a simple lunch staple and elevates it with layers of quality ingredients. The combination of shaved ham, creamy Havarti cheese, and thinly sliced red onions, all brought together with sweet Bavarian mustard and a touch of mayonnaise, makes for a delightful meal. Utilizing a flat non-stick pan, this recipe provides an easy yet satisfying cooking method that anyone can master. Ideal for lunch or a quick snack, these paninis promise to please!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Shaved Ham
1 lb (Shaved, ready for layering)
European-style Bread
1 loaf (Sliced)
Havarti Cheese
8 slices (Pre-sliced)
Red Onion
1/4 (Sliced very thinly)
Sweet Bavarian Mustard
To taste (Spreading)
Mayonnaise
To taste (Spreading)
Butter
To taste (For spreading on bread)
Instructions
1
Start by spreading a thin layer of mayonnaise on one slice of bread and a generous layer of sweet Bavarian mustard on another slice.
2
Layer the shaved ham on top of the mustard, followed by a slice of Havarti cheese and a few slices of red onion for added crunch.
3
Top with another slice of bread to create a sandwich.
4
Butter the outside of both slices of the bread generously to ensure a golden, crisp finish.
5
Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat and place the sandwich in the pan.
6
To flatten, place a heavy cast iron pan or another weight (like a plate with a brick) on top of the sandwich.
7
Cook for 3-4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown, then carefully flip the sandwich and repeat the process on the other side.
8
Once both sides are golden and the cheese has melted, remove the panini from the pan, slice in half, and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Savory Ham and Havarti Panini?
It is a gourmet sandwich featuring shaved ham, creamy Havarti cheese, and red onions, pressed and toasted on European-style bread.
What type of ham is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe calls for shaved ham, which allows for better layering and a more delicate texture.
Why is Havarti cheese used in this panini?
Havarti is chosen for its mild flavor and excellent melting properties, which creates a gooey center.
What is European-style bread?
This typically refers to crusty, hearty loaves like sourdough, ciabatta, or rustic white bread that can withstand being pressed.
Can I use a different type of mustard?
Yes, while sweet Bavarian mustard adds a specific flavor profile, honey mustard or Dijon are suitable substitutes.
Do I need a panini press to make this recipe?
No, you can use a non-stick frying pan and a heavy cast iron pan or plate as a weight to flatten the sandwich.
How long should I cook the panini?
Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes per side over medium-high heat until the bread is golden brown.
Why do I need to butter the outside of the bread?
Butter helps the bread achieve a perfectly golden, crisp finish and adds rich flavor.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You would need to substitute the Havarti cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives to make it dairy-free.
Is the red onion necessary?
The red onion provides a sharp crunch and flavor contrast, but it can be omitted if you prefer.
How thinly should I slice the red onion?
Slice the onion very thinly so it softens slightly during cooking without overpowering the other ingredients.
Can I add other condiments to the panini?
While the recipe suggests mayonnaise and Bavarian mustard, you can add pesto or aioli for a different twist.
Is this panini recipe suitable for lunch?
Yes, it is an ideal quick lunch or a satisfying snack.
What can I use as a weight if I don't have a cast iron pan?
A heavy plate or a regular pan with a clean brick or a heavy canned good inside can serve as an effective weight.
How do I prevent the bread from burning?
Maintain a medium-high heat and watch the sandwich closely, as pan temperatures can vary.
Can I use turkey instead of ham?
Absolutely, shaved turkey is a great alternative that pairs well with Havarti and mustard.
What side dishes pair well with these paninis?
A light green salad, a cup of tomato soup, or potato chips are classic pairings.
Is this recipe easy for beginners?
Yes, it uses simple techniques and everyday kitchen tools, making it very beginner-friendly.
Can I prepare these paninis in advance?
They are best served fresh and warm, but you can assemble them ahead of time and grill them right before serving.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover paninis in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
What is the best way to reheat a panini?
Reheat in a dry pan over medium heat or in a toaster oven to restore the crispiness of the bread.
Can I use salted butter for the bread?
Yes, salted butter works well and adds a bit of extra flavor to the crust.
Is this recipe high in protein?
Yes, the combination of ham and cheese provides a good amount of protein per serving.
How many sandwiches does the ingredient list make?
With 1 lb of ham and 8 slices of cheese, you can typically make 4 to 8 sandwiches depending on how generously you layer them.
Can I use pre-sliced bread?
Yes, as long as the slices are thick enough to withstand pressing without becoming too flat.
What makes the cheese melt best?
Using pre-sliced or thinly sliced cheese ensures it melts quickly and evenly during the 3-4 minutes of cooking.
Can I add greens like spinach?
Yes, adding a handful of fresh spinach or arugula inside the sandwich adds a nice nutritional boost.
Is Havarti cheese spicy?
Standard Havarti is very mild and buttery, though some varieties may include jalapenos or herbs.
What does Bavarian mustard taste like?
It is typically sweeter and more textured than standard yellow mustard, offering a unique tangy flavor.
How should I slice the panini for serving?
Slicing diagonally in half is the traditional way to serve a panini and makes it easier to eat.