As the editor, it’s not often that I step into the spotlight to share my personal favorites. However, there’s one exceptional creation that has not only captured my heart but has also become a celebrated favorite among our entire staff. It’s a dish that embodies the essence of our culinary philosophy: simplicity, quality, and a dash of creativity. Allow me to introduce you to the Focaccia Panini with Oven-Dried Tomato & Chicken, a sandwich that’s more than just a meal—it’s narrative of flavor, craftsmanship, and shared joy.
The Ingredients That Bind Us:
- Tomatoes, transformed under the gentle heat of the oven, emerge as the sweet, tangy stars of this show.
- Salt and Pepper, is the foundational duo that elevates every component with just a sprinkle.
- Olive Oil, our liquid gold, lends its rich, fruity notes to the ensemble.
- Focaccia Bread is the perfect canvas, soft yet sturdy, infused with the essence of Italy.
- Fresh Basil, offering whispers of peppery sweetness in every bite.
- Bocconcini Cheese, melting into creamy pools of delight.
- Baby Arugula, introduces a peppery crunch that contrasts beautifully with the other textures.
- Cooked Chicken Breast, tender, juicy, and seasoned to perfection, completing the masterpiece.
Preparation: 20 mins (plus a night’s wait for the tomatoes)
Performance: 10 mins
Encore: 30 mins + overnight transformation
Calories: 600 kcal of pure pleasure per serving
Serving: 4 servings
A Personal Note:
Crafting this Panini was akin to orchestrating a symphony, where each ingredient played its part to perfection, coming together in a crescendo of flavors that resonate with warmth and satisfaction. The process of slow-roasting the tomatoes overnight, the ritual of layering each component, and the final act of pressing them together, not only melds the flavors but also our team’s shared commitment to culinary excellence.
This sandwich has become a symbol of our collective passion, a reminder of the simple joys that good food can bring. It’s a dish that we turn to time and again, for its comforting familiarity and its ability to surprise and delight with every bite.
As you embark on this culinary journey with us, know that you’re not just preparing a meal; you’re weaving a tapestry of flavors that has a special place in the hearts of everyone here at our magazine. This is more than a recipe; it’s an invitation to share in the joy and the bond that this Focaccia Panini has brought to our team.
