Turkey and Pesto Panini

1 loaf french bread split
1/3 cup store bought pesto
8 ounces sliced roasted turkey
4 ounces sliced swiss cheese (also used provolone)
1/4 medium red onion thinly sliced
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
salt and black pepper
1 small head lettuce torn into bite-size pieces (6 cups)
1 avocado  cut into bite-size pieces

Spread the bottom half of the loaf with the pesto. Top with turkey, cheese and onion. Sandwich with the top half of the loaf and cut into four pieces. Dividing evenly brush the outside of the sandwiches with 1 tablespoon olive oil. (or just spray the panini press with cooking spray) grill in press 5-6 min till cheese is melted and bread is crisp.

In large bowl whisk together the vinegar, 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1/4 tsp of each salt and pepper. Add lettuce and avocado and toss to combine. I threw in some red onion slices and cherry tomatoes as well. Serve with sandwiches.




Recipe from the July 2012 issue of Real Simple.