Smoked Turkey, Pepper Jack Cheese, and Basil Panini Sandwich
Sneak Preview: This Smoked Turkey, Pepper Jack Cheese, and Basil Panini Sandwich is a crispy panini stuffed with flavor–inspired by Oprah’s Love Sandwich.

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Have you ever heard of the 5-second rule about dropping food on the floor? It’s possible I made it up.
As a teenage girl, I spent many summer days driving a tractor by myself in the fields of our Indiana farm. Either Mom would bring me
Sometimes, I would accidentally drop my sandwich on the ground. Since it was all there was to eat, I wasn’t about to throw it away. If I could rescue it and brush the dirt off faster than the germs could hop on (less than 5 seconds), then all was good. Right?
A hot lunch is so much better when possible…
While I never got sick from this immunity-building exercise, I did get tired of bologna sandwiches. In fact, I pretty much avoid cold sandwiches altogether, especially now that I can make a warm and crusty panini instead.
Recipe Inspiration: Discovering the “Love Sandwich”
A few years ago, Oprah published the recipe for her “Love Sandwich,” which is the basis for this recipe. As Oprah suggested, I use smoked turkey instead of plain, roasted turkey. Add tomato slices (dried by pressing between paper towels) for more color and flavor.
Ingredients and Substitutions
Basil is the unique calling card of this sandwich. Substitute spinach or another green if you prefer.
Instead of smoked turkey, use roast turkey or ham.
Pepper Jack cheese adds spicy interest,t but a milder cheese like Muenster or mild Cheddar sounds good, too.
Looking for More Ideas and Information About Paninis?
I’m not an expert, but I know someone who is. Check out Panini Happy. Kathy’s blog contains creative recipes and helpful hints about making a panini. She also gives advice for buying a panini maker, or you can read about making one using two skillets.
Need help troubleshooting? Email me: Paula at saladinajar.com—photos welcome!
Paula Rhodes, owner
As a retired home economist, I created Saladinajar.com to share my belief that you don’t have to be a chef to find joy in creating homemade food worth sharing. Bread machines (used in an unconventional way), homemade yogurt, and quick microwave recipes are my specialty.