Mozzarella E Prosciutto Hero Recipe

Slice and drain

If mozzarella is packed in water, drain and pat dry with paper towels. Slice mozzarella into 1/4-inch thick slices. Drain and slice roasted red peppers into 1/2-inch strips. Thinly slice the tomato into 1/4-inch rounds and thinly slice the red onion into half-moons.

If using a whole hero roll, split it lengthwise leaving a hinge if you prefer, and remove a small amount of interior crumb if you want more room for fillings.

In a small bowl or jar combine extra-virgin olive oil (2 tbs), red wine vinegar (1 tsp), Dijon mustard (1/2 tsp), minced garlic (1/2 tsp), salt (1/2 tsp) and black pepper (1/4 tsp). Whisk or shake until emulsified. Reserve about 1 tablespoon of the dressing for drizzling over the mozzarella and vegetables; the remainder will lightly dress the arugula.

Lightly brush the cut interior of the hero roll with 1 tsp olive oil. If you prefer a warm sandwich, toast the roll cut-side up under a broiler or in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 3–5 minutes until just golden.

On the bottom half of the roll arrange half of the mozzarella slices in a single layer. Lay the prosciutto slices over the mozzarella, folding them slightly to create volume and even coverage.

Top the prosciutto with roasted red pepper strips, then layer the tomato slices and scattered red onion. Tear basil leaves and tuck them among the vegetables and cheese.

Place remaining mozzarella slices on top if you want a cheesier sandwich. Pile arugula on top of the cheese and drizzle the reserved tablespoon of dressing over the arugula and vegetables to flavor them lightly (do not over-saturate bread).

If using, drizzle 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze over the fillings and sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes to taste.

Close the sandwich, press gently to compact, and using a serrated knife, cut the hero into desired portions (typically two halves). If serving warm, wrap in foil and place in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 5–7 minutes to warm through and slightly melt the mozzarella.

Serve immediately while bread is crisp and cheese is fresh. Offer extra balsamic glaze and pepper flakes at the table.