Best Sun-dried Tomato Pesto Turkey Sandwich

There’s something about a well-made sandwich that feels like a warm hug—especially when it’s packed with bold, sun-kissed flavors. I remember the first time I tried a sun-dried tomato pesto turkey sandwich at a little café tucked away on a cobblestone street. The tangy sweetness of the pesto paired with tender turkey and crisp greens was pure magic. I knew right then I had to recreate it at home, and after many delicious experiments, I’m thrilled to share my version with you. This sandwich is perfect for picnics, quick lunches, or even a cozy dinner with a side of soup. Let’s make it together!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every great sandwich starts with quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this beauty to life:

• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil) – Their deep, concentrated flavor is the star here. If you’re using dry-packed ones, just soak them in warm water for 10 minutes first.
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves – Bright and herbaceous, basil balances the richness of the tomatoes.
• 2 tbsp pine nuts – Toasted for extra nuttiness, but walnuts or almonds work too!
• 1 small garlic clove – Because every pesto needs a little kick.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Salty, umami goodness. Vegan? Nutritional yeast is a great swap.
• 3 tbsp olive oil – Use the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
• 8 slices of crusty bread – Ciabatta or sourdough are my favorites for their chew.
• 1/2 lb sliced roasted turkey – Opt for high-quality deli turkey or leftover homemade roast turkey.
• 1 cup baby arugula or spinach – For a peppery crunch.
• 4 slices provolone or mozzarella cheese – Melty and mild, but skip if you prefer it lighter.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s assemble this masterpiece—it’s easier than you think!

1. Make the pesto: In a food processor, combine the sun-dried tomatoes, basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan. Pulse until finely chopped, then drizzle in the olive oil while blending until smooth. Taste and add a pinch of salt if needed.
2. Toast the bread: Lightly toast your bread slices for extra texture. A toaster or a quick stint in a skillet with a dab of butter works wonders.
3. Layer it up: Spread a generous layer of pesto on each slice of bread. Top half the slices with turkey, cheese, and a handful of arugula. Close the sandwiches with the remaining slices, pesto-side down.
4. Press and serve: If you’re feeling fancy, press the sandwiches in a panini grill or a skillet with a heavy lid for a minute or two to melt the cheese. Otherwise, dig in as-is—it’s delicious either way!

Tip: If your pesto is too thick, add a splash of water or more olive oil to loosen it. Too thin? Toss in a few extra nuts or cheese to thicken it up.

There’s something undeniably comforting about a well-made turkey sandwich, but when you add sun-dried tomato pesto into the mix, it transforms into something truly special. This sandwich is packed with layers of flavor, from the savory turkey to the tangy pesto and creamy cheese. Below, I’ll share some pro tips, variations, and serving ideas to make this sandwich your new go-to lunch favorite.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Sandwich

• Toast the bread lightly: A quick toast adds a satisfying crunch and prevents the sandwich from getting soggy.
• Spread the pesto evenly: Make sure every bite has that delicious sun-dried tomato flavor by spreading it from edge to edge.
• Layer strategically: Place the turkey and cheese next to the pesto to let the flavors meld beautifully.
• Press it (optional): If you love a warm, melty sandwich, give it a quick press in a panini maker or skillet.

Variations & Substitutions

This sandwich is wonderfully adaptable! Here are a few ways to mix it up:

• Bread: Swap the ciabatta for sourdough, whole grain, or even a wrap for a lighter option.
• Cheese: Mozzarella, provolone, or even goat cheese work beautifully in place of the suggested cheese.
• Protein: Not a fan of turkey? Try grilled chicken, roasted veggies, or even crispy bacon.
• Extra crunch: Add sliced cucumbers, sprouts, or shredded lettuce for a fresh bite.

What to Serve With It

This sandwich is hearty enough to stand alone, but it pairs wonderfully with:

• A simple green salad with balsamic dressing
• Roasted sweet potato fries or crispy potato chips
• A bowl of tomato soup for the ultimate cozy meal
• Fresh fruit like grapes or apple slices for a sweet contrast

Storage & Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (though it’s so good, you might not!), here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Storage: Wrap the sandwich tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 1 day. For longer storage, keep the components separate.
• Reheating: For a warm sandwich, unwrap and toast in a skillet over medium heat or in a panini press until the cheese melts. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the sun-dried tomato pesto ahead of time?
Absolutely! The pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for up to 3 months.

What if I don’t have fresh basil for the pesto?
No problem—you can substitute with spinach or arugula, though the flavor will be slightly different. Dried basil (in a pinch) works too, but use sparingly.

Is there a dairy-free option for this sandwich?
Yes! Use vegan cheese or skip the cheese altogether and add extra avocado or hummus for creaminess.

Can I pack this sandwich for lunch?
Definitely! Just assemble it right before eating to keep the bread from getting soggy, or pack the pesto separately and spread it at lunchtime.

Final Thoughts

This sun-dried tomato pesto turkey sandwich is more than just a meal—it’s a little moment of joy in the middle of your day. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch, a picnic, or a cozy dinner, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. The best part? It’s endlessly customizable, so you can make it your own. Happy sandwich-making, friends!