Italian Pressed Sandwich Recipes

Steps:

• Split the baguette open and lightly brush with oil, then season lightly with salt and pepper. Thinly slice the roasted pepper. Layer on the prosciutto, provolone, basil, red pepper, balsamic glaze and salami. Top with the top half of the baguette. (Layering the meat on the bottom and top of the sandwich prevents the fillings from soaking through and making the bread soggy.)
• Put a bowl or other heavy object (such as a large can or jar) on the sandwich to press it for 1 hour before serving. Or, pack it in the bottom of your lunchbox, under a glass container or drink.

Steps:

• Remove insides of bread halves; reserve for another use. Stir together mayonnaise, lemon zest and juice, and capers in a bowl; season with salt and pepper. Divide mixture evenly between top and bottom bread halves. Layer half of turkey, cheese, and capocollo on bottom, then repeat layering with remaining meats and cheese. Pack watercress into top half; layer with tomato slices and season with salt and pepper.
• Close sandwich. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Place a heavy skillet on top; press down to flatten sandwich slightly. Add several heavy canned goods to top of skillet. Let sit at least 45 minutes or, in refrigerator, up to 12 hours before unwrapping, slicing into wedges, and serving with chips and fruit.

Steps:

• Preheat oven to 375°F. Split bread horizontally; scoop out soft interior and reserve for croutons or breadcrumbs (see cook's note). Brush inside of each bread half with oil. Bake, cut-side up, until toasted, about 7 minutes. Let cool completely. Spread tapenade on bottom half of bread; add provolone and mozzarella. Top with peppers, artichokes, and salami. Scatter top with arugula. Top with other bread half; press to sandwich.
• Wrap tightly with foil. Place a heavy skillet on top; weigh down with canned goods. Refrigerate at least 1 hour and up to 8 hours.
• Preheat a grill to medium, or oven to 375°F. Transfer wrapped sandwich to grill and cover (or transfer to oven); cook, flipping once, until cheese begins to melt and bread is crisp, about 20 minutes. Remove foil, slice, and serve.