Cranberry Pesto Turkey Recipe
turkey, bacon, avocado, dried cranberries, Swiss cheese, pesto aioli
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Ingredients
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Sandwich Components
Pesto Aioli
Optional Garnishes / Finish
Method
Pesto Aioli
- 1
Make the aioli
In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons prepared basil pesto, 1 teaspoon minced garlic, 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Stir thoroughly until smooth and taste; adjust lemon, salt, or pepper to preference. Refrigerate while assembling the sandwich so flavors meld.
Sandwich Assembly
- 2
Prepare bread
If desired, split the ciabatta roll in half and lightly butter the cut sides (about 1 tablespoon butter). Toast cut sides in a skillet or under a broiler until golden and crisp, about 2–3 minutes per side on medium heat in a skillet or 1–2 minutes under hot broiler—watch closely to avoid burning.
- 3
Slice and prep avocado
Halve the avocado, remove the pit, and slice thinly while still in the skin. Score the flesh and scoop out slices with a spoon. Lightly season the slices with a tiny pinch of salt and a few grinds of black pepper.
- 4
Layer ingredients
Spread a generous tablespoon of the pesto aioli onto each toasted cut side of the roll. On the bottom half, lay down half of the Swiss cheese slice (or both slices folded) so cheese sits directly on the warm bread—this will help it soften. Arrange 8 ounces sliced roasted turkey evenly over the cheese. Sprinkle 1 ounce dried cranberries across the turkey to provide sweet-tart contrast. Add the 4 cooked crisp bacon strips on top of the cranberries. Fan the avocado slices over the bacon. Top with 1/2 cup mixed baby greens or arugula, if using. Finish with the remaining Swiss cheese (if you prefer both slices on top) or leave as is.
- 5
Finish sandwich
Spread remaining pesto aioli on the top half of the roll and place it over the stacked ingredients. If you want the cheese more melted, place the assembled sandwich briefly (1–2 minutes) in a warm skillet covered with a lid on low heat, or under a broiler for 30–60 seconds—watch closely. Slice the sandwich in half and serve immediately.