Experience the ultimate in convenience and flavor with this incredible Turkey Sub with Artichokes and Basil. This easy-to-make sandwich, featuring French bread generously stuffed with tender artichoke hearts, succulent turkey, fresh vegetables, and a vibrant homemade basil sauce, is truly perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a delightful picnic in the park or a quick, satisfying dinner at home. Prepare to elevate your sandwich game with a recipe that promises freshness, ease, and a burst of Mediterranean-inspired taste.
There’s a special place in my heart for a truly exceptional sandwich. While classics like a hearty Club Sandwich or a comforting, crispy Grilled Cheese Sandwich will always be favorites, this Turkey Sub with Artichokes and Basil has quickly earned its spot on my go-to list. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience, bringing together fresh ingredients and a homemade sauce that sings with flavor.
My relationship with basil has always been a journey of highs and lows. When it comes to eating it, it’s pure, unadulterated love. The vibrant, peppery, sweet aroma and taste of fresh basil can transform any dish, and it truly shines in this sandwich. However, my endeavors in growing this beloved herb have often been a tale of comedic misfortune.
I once had a magnificent garden, a sprawling green oasis, and within it, a basil plant that flourished so profusely I could barely keep up with its bounty. It was a dream, providing endless leaves for pestos, salads, and sauces. But then came a move, and with it, the challenge of container gardening. Since then, my potted basil plants have stubbornly refused to thrive. They grow tall and spindly, with sparse, almost apologetic leaves, a far cry from their former glory. It felt like a personal failing, a gardener’s conundrum I couldn’t quite crack.
Recently, however, a small miracle occurred. I spotted one of those living basil plants in the produce aisle, far more economical than buying a tiny, pre-packaged amount for a recipe I had in mind. I brought it home, placed it on my kitchen counter by the window, and gave it a good watering. I used what I needed for my cooking, expecting the usual decline within a few days or weeks. But this little plant defied all expectations. It not only stayed alive but continued to grow, producing an abundance of lush, fragrant leaves. I’m not sure if these supermarket plants are designed for a prolonged existence on a kitchen sink, but this particular basil plant has proven to be an overachiever, a testament to resilience and continuous giving!
In honor of this tenacious little basil plant and its generous spirit, I’m delighted to share another fantastic sandwich recipe that embodies the essence of summer and effortless entertaining. This Turkey Sub with Artichokes and Basil is an absolute gem for various occasions. Imagine taking it along on a scenic Sunday drive through the mountains, enjoying it during a relaxing afternoon at the lake, or making it the centerpiece of a vibrant picnic spread. It’s not just a sandwich; it’s a versatile meal solution that comes together in a flash and generously serves many. What more could one possibly ask for when planning a memorable meal?
Beyond its convenience, this sub offers a symphony of textures and flavors. The crusty French bread provides a satisfying chew, while the creamy Havarti cheese melts ever so slightly into the layers of savory turkey and tangy artichoke hearts. The fresh tomatoes add a burst of juiciness, and the baby spinach introduces a delightful peppery freshness. But the true star, of course, is that luscious basil sauce, binding all these elements into a harmonious whole.
Crafting Your Perfect Turkey Sub with Artichokes and Basil
Creating this delicious sub is remarkably straightforward, requiring just a few simple steps. The beauty of this recipe lies in its elegant simplicity and the way each component contributes to a truly satisfying culinary experience.
1. Master the Basil Sauce
The heart of this sandwich’s flavor profile lies in its vibrant basil sauce. This step is as simple as gathering your fresh basil leaves, a good quality vegetable oil, a generous helping of grated Parmesan cheese, a touch of white wine vinegar for tang, a spoonful of Dijon mustard for a subtle kick, and a grated clove of garlic for aromatic depth. Combine all these ingredients in a food processor or a blender and process until the mixture is mostly smooth. You’re looking for a bright green, creamy consistency. Don’t forget to taste and adjust with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. This sauce is not just a condiment; it’s a flavor booster that ties all the elements of the sandwich together beautifully.
2. Prepare the French Bread Foundation
The foundation of any great sub is the bread, and for this recipe, a crusty French bread loaf is ideal. To ensure there’s ample room for all the delicious fillings, you’ll want to prepare the bread by cutting it lengthwise and then carefully hollowing out a portion of each half. This creates a perfect pocket, preventing the sandwich from becoming too bready and allowing the fillings to be the star. While you can use a knife, I find that gently tearing out the soft interior with your hands is often the easiest and most effective method. Don’t discard the removed bread; it can be repurposed into fresh breadcrumbs or simply enjoyed as a chef’s snack!
3. Expertly Assemble Your Delicious Sandwich
With your basil sauce ready and your bread prepped, it’s time for the fun part: assembly! Begin by generously spreading the aromatic basil sauce on the inside of both halves of the hollowed French bread. This ensures every bite is infused with that incredible fresh basil flavor. Next, layer your ingredients strategically. Start with a foundation of drained and sliced artichoke hearts. Their briny, earthy flavor perfectly complements the other ingredients. Follow this with slices of Havarti cheese, known for its buttery, mild taste and smooth texture. Then, add a generous amount of deli-sliced peppered turkey for a savory, protein-rich layer. Next come the vibrant tomato slices, adding freshness and a touch of acidity. Finally, top everything with a lush bed of lightly packed baby spinach. The order of layering helps distribute the flavors and ensures structural integrity.
4. Slice and Serve with Joy
Once all your layers are in place, carefully bring the top half of the French bread over to complete your magnificent sub. Gently press down to compact the fillings. Using a sharp serrated knife, slice the entire loaf into individual serving portions – typically 6 to 8, depending on desired size. Arrange them appealingly on a platter, and get ready to enjoy a sandwich that’s as impressive to look at as it is to eat!
Essential Tips for the Best Turkey Sub
To ensure your Turkey Sub with Artichokes and Basil is nothing short of spectacular, consider these helpful tips and tricks that will elevate your sandwich-making game:
- Blotting Artichoke Hearts is Key: Artichoke hearts, especially those from a can or jar, can carry excess moisture. Before layering them into your sandwich, it’s crucial to drain them thoroughly and then blot them dry with paper towels. This simple step prevents the bread from becoming soggy, a common pitfall, especially if you’re assembling the sandwich ahead of time. A dry base means a firmer, more enjoyable texture.
- Basil Sauce Alternatives: While our homemade basil sauce is a highlight, if you’re short on time or prefer a different flavor profile, a good quality store-bought pesto can be an excellent substitute. Choose a pesto with fresh, bright flavors to complement the other ingredients. You could also experiment with a sun-dried tomato pesto for a different twist.
- Flexibility in Serving: This recipe is designed around a large French bread loaf, perfect for family meals or group gatherings. However, if you’re preparing for fewer people or want individual portions, feel free to use smaller, individual sandwich buns or baguettes instead. Simply adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly for each bun.
- Make-Ahead and Storage: This sub is fantastic for making ahead, making it an ideal candidate for picnics or meal prep. If you plan to assemble it in advance, wrap the entire loaf tightly in plastic wrap to keep it fresh and prevent the bread from drying out. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. For best results and to maintain optimal texture, consume within 24 hours.
- Ingredient Variations: Don’t hesitate to customize! Add thinly sliced red onion for a sharper bite, roasted red peppers for sweetness, or a different type of cheese like provolone or fresh mozzarella. If peppered turkey isn’t your preference, a classic smoked turkey or even a grilled chicken breast would work wonderfully.
- Bread Choices: While French bread offers that classic sub experience, other sturdy loaves like ciabatta, a good quality artisan bread, or even a soft Italian loaf can be excellent alternatives, each bringing a slightly different texture and flavor to the party.
By keeping these simple tips in mind, you’re not just making a sandwich; you’re crafting a culinary delight that’s sure to impress with its thoughtful preparation and incredible taste.
Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions
This Turkey Sub with Artichokes and Basil is a meal in itself, but it truly shines when paired with simple, complementary side dishes. For a classic picnic experience, consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette, a bowl of tangy potato salad, or a refreshing fruit salad featuring seasonal berries and melon. A side of kettle-cooked potato chips adds a satisfying crunch. For beverages, iced tea, lemonade, or a light sparkling water with a hint of lemon or lime would perfectly complement the fresh flavors of the sub. Whether it’s a casual backyard lunch or an elegant outdoor gathering, this sandwich, with its vibrant flavors and satisfying textures, is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
More Perfect Picnic Sandwich Recipes
If you’re as passionate about delightful, easy-to-transport meals as I am, you’ll love exploring these other fantastic sandwich recipes that are perfect for any picnic, packed lunch, or simple dinner:
Chicken Bacon Ranch Wraps
Egg Salad BLTs
BBQ Chicken Salad Sandwiches
Chicken Pesto Sandwich
Monte Cristo Sandwich Loaf
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Turkey Sub with Artichokes and Basil
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Ingredients
- 1 cup lightly packed fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic grated
- salt and pepper
- 1 (16 oz) loaf French bread unsliced
- 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts drained and sliced
- 4 slices Havarti cheese
- 1/2 lb deli sliced peppered turkey
- 1 medium tomato sliced
- 1 cup lightly packed baby spinach torn
Instructions
- In a food processor or blender, combine the basil, oil, Parmesan, vinegar, mustard and garlic. Process until mostly smooth. Taste and add salt and pepper as desired.1 cup lightly packed fresh basil leaves, 1/4 cup vegetable oil, 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 clove garlic, salt and pepper
- Cut the French bread in half lengthwise. Hollow out the bread halves, leaving about 1/2 – 1 inch shell. (Reserve the bread and turn into bread crumbs, or give them to your kids to snack on like I did! 🙂 )1 (16 oz) loaf French bread
- Spread the basil mixture on the inside of both halves.
- Layer the artichoke hearts on the bottom layer, followed by the cheese, then the turkey, tomatoes, and then top with the spinach. Place the top half of the bread on top and cut into 6 servings.1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, 4 slices Havarti cheese, 1/2 lb deli sliced peppered turkey, 1 medium tomato, 1 cup lightly packed baby spinach
Recipe Notes:
Nutrition information provided as an estimate only. Various brands and products can change the counts. Any nutritional information should be used as a general guide