Villaggio Melt Recipe

Combine brine

In a small heatproof bowl or jar, combine apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Stir until sugar and salt dissolve.

Add onion

Pack the thinly sliced red onion into the jar and pour the brine over so onions are fully submerged. Let sit at room temperature for at least 20 minutes; refrigerate if holding longer. Use 2 tablespoons of the pickled onion for the sandwich.

Make the spread

In a small bowl combine garlic aioli (or mayonnaise), Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar and cracked black pepper. Stir to a smooth, slightly tangy spread. Taste and adjust with more vinegar or pepper as desired.

Prepare bread

Lay the two bread slices flat. Evenly spread about half of the aioli mixture on the interior side of each slice.

Layer meats and cheese

On one slice, layer the tavern ham evenly across the bread. Add the smoked turkey on top of the ham, followed by the pistachio mortadella. Distribute the sliced mozzarella over the meats in a single even layer. Scatter the quick pickled red onion (about 2 tablespoons) over the cheese to add brightness and crunch.

Close sandwich

Top with the second bread slice, aioli side down, pressing gently to compact the sandwich for even melting.

Butter the exterior

Spread the room-temperature butter evenly on the outside faces of both bread slices. This will create a golden crust when griddled.

Heat pan

Preheat a heavy skillet or griddle over medium-low to medium heat (about 325–350°F / 160–175°C if using an infrared or surface thermometer). A lower temperature helps the cheese melt before the bread over-browns.

Grill sandwich

Place the sandwich in the skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes on the first side until golden brown. Press gently with a spatula or a weight (a smaller cast-iron pan works) to encourage even contact. Flip and cook the second side another 2.5–4 minutes until the bread is golden and the mozzarella is melted. If the bread is browning too quickly before the cheese melts, lower the heat and cover the pan for 1–2 minutes to trap heat and speed melting.

Rest and slice

Transfer the sandwich to a cutting board and let rest 1–2 minutes so the melted cheese sets slightly. Cut the sandwich in half on the diagonal or down the middle with a sharp serrated knife.

Plate the Villaggio Melt with optional extra pickled onions or a small side salad or kettle chips. Serve immediately while hot and melty.