By Erika Guzman, Recent ASU Nutrition Student
Sandwiches are a lifesaver. They’re usually quick and easy, customizable, and can be as simple as a PB&J or as complicated as the Elvis. It’s an easy portion-controlled size that can easily satisfy a hunger for a little while and even fun to lunch swap with friends!
But sometimes, a fancy sandwich is needed as a treat or a break from the kitchen without taking half an hour to cook. I introduce to you: prosciutto and fig sandwich. The idea was accidental. A friend of mine sandwiched two small appetizers into one big bite, the crunchy bread of a bruschetta with a prosciutto-wrapped carrot. However, I’m sure this recipe is tastier. With a little bit of cooking, it’s just as sweet and savory, yet filling.
Balsamic reduction:
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar
You can save the rest in a container in the fridge for about a week. Great for salads!
- 2 slices of ciabatta bread, or a sliced ciabatta roll
- 1 tsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp. goat cheese, sliced or spreadable (if you can find honey-infused, spreadable goat cheese, this one goes best!)
- 6 slices prosciutto, sliced thin or sandwich cut
- 1-2 Tbsp. fig jam/ marmalade
- A handful of peppery greens, such as arugula or spinach
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Directions:
Reduction:
- Start with making the reduction. In a small saucepan, pour the ½ cup of balsamic over high heat. Whisk briskly. Once it starts to boil, constantly whisk to prevent burning.
- Cook for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the liquid becomes a syrupy consistency.
Sandwich Assembly:
- Drizzle oil on both slices of bread and toast until golden brown. This works best in a toaster oven for 3 minutes, but a toaster works as well.
- Spread or top the goat cheese on the bottom, then the prosciutto slices on the bread. Drizzle a teaspoon of the reduction onto the meat.
- Next, add the greens with another drizzle of the balsamic reduction.
- Spread the fig jam or marmalade on the top slice, season with freshly ground black pepper, and add the top bun to finish.
- Slice in half and enjoy!
Although it is a sandwich, it’s quite tasty and feels a little fancy, almost like a classy cafe with jazz music dancing across the room.
For more incredible recipes, check out the Fill Your Plate recipe section.