Turkey Cuban Sandwich Recipe

This turkey Cuban sandwich recipe is a delightful twist on the classic Cuban sandwich. Often made with pork, this version uses turkey breast, making it leaner but still packed with flavor. The Swiss cheese, tangy mustard, and crisp pickles give it the authentic Cuban sandwich taste. This is a perfect recipe to use up leftover turkey, or simply for a delicious, easy-to-make lunch or dinner.

Photos of Turkey Cuban Sandwich Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this recipe can be found in your regular supermarket or even at home. One exception might be the Alpine lace Swiss cheese. This is a lower fat version of Swiss cheese and can be found in the cheese or deli section of most larger supermarkets. If unable to find it, any Swiss cheese can be a good substitute. Also, the ham in this recipe refers to cooked ham slices, not raw or ground ham.

Ingredients For Your Turkey Cuban Sandwich

French bread: The base of any sandwich, French bread is used for its crispy crust and soft interior.

Turkey breast: This lean white meat is a healthier alternative to traditional pork but still gives the sandwich substantial body.

Ham: Gives the sandwich a rich and savory flavor, complementing the turkey.

Alpine lace Swiss cheese: This lower fat version of Swiss cheese melts beautifully and gives the sandwich a creamy texture.

Pickles: Adds a tangy crunch to the sandwich, balancing out the richness of the meat and cheese.

Mustard: Gives the sandwich a sharp, tangy flavor that cuts through the cheese and meat.

Pam cooking spray: Used to prevent the sandwich from sticking to the sandwich press and to give the bread a nice, crispy texture.

One reader, Aloise Mcwilliams says:

This turkey Cuban sandwich recipe is a game-changer! The combination of turkey, ham, and Swiss cheese with mustard and pickles is simply divine. The crispy crust and melted cheese take it to the next level. It's a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Aloise Mcwilliams

Key Techniques for Crafting the Perfect Turkey Cuban Sandwich

How to assemble the sandwich: Layer the mustard, cheese, pickles, turkey, and ham on the sliced bread, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.

How to use a sandwich press: Preheat the sandwich press and lightly coat it with butter-flavored cooking spray. Place the assembled sandwich inside and press down gently until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown and crispy.

How to serve the sandwich: Once the sandwich is ready, carefully remove it from the press and cut it diagonally before serving.

How To Make Turkey Cuban Sandwich

Instead of the usual roasted pork, we are making this Cuban sandwich with turkey. It’s leaner, less fat, and delicious, goes well with toast and cheese.

Preparation:

Cooking:

Total:

Serves:

Ingredients

1French Bread
3ozturkey breast
1ham,slice
2Alpine Lace Swiss cheese,thin slices
3pickles,slices
mustard
pam cooking spray

Instructions

Slice the bread open.
Spread mustard on both sides.
Place cheese and pickles on the bread.
Add turkey and top with ham.
Close your sandwich, spray the sandwich press with buttered flavored Pam and press down until the cheese is melted and the crust is a little crispy.
Cut the sandwich diagonally and serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 1399.64kcal
Fat: 80.12g
Saturated Fat: 24.68g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 38.90g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 11.17g
Carbohydrates: 44.34g
Fiber: 0.98g
Sugar: 1.30g
Protein: 117.77g
Cholesterol: 408.89mg
Sodium: 7341.44mg
Calcium: 97.25mg
Potassium: 2235.48mg
Iron: 6.88mg
Vitamin A: 8.74µg
Vitamin C: 0.03mg

Expert Advice for Achieving the Ideal Texture in a Turkey Cuban Sandwich

To ensure your turkey Cuban sandwich has the perfect crunch and the cheese is evenly melted, preheat your sandwich press before adding your sandwich. This will help to evenly distribute the heat and give your sandwich a uniformly crispy texture. Additionally, layering the cheese between the turkey and ham can help it to melt more evenly.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing a Turkey Cuban Sandwich

Plan ahead: Prepare all your ingredients and utensils before starting the recipe to save time and avoid any last-minute rush.

Use pre-cooked ingredients: Utilize pre-cooked or leftover turkey and ham to cut down on cooking time and make the sandwich preparation quicker.

Multi-task: While the sandwich is in the press, use that time to clean up your workspace and prepare any side dishes to make the most of your time in the kitchen.

Invest in a good knife: A sharp, quality knife can make slicing ingredients quicker and more efficient, saving you time during the prep process.

Organize your kitchen: Keep your kitchen organized and tidy to easily locate ingredients and utensils, preventing unnecessary time spent searching for items.

Substitute Ingredients For Turkey Cuban Sandwich Recipe

turkey breast - Substitute with chicken breast: Chicken breast can be used as a substitute for turkey breast in this recipe, providing a similar texture and flavor profile.
ham - Substitute with roast pork: Roast pork can be used as a substitute for ham in a Cuban sandwich, offering a rich and savory flavor.
alpine lace swiss cheese - Substitute with gruyere cheese: Gruyere cheese can be used as a substitute for alpine lace swiss cheese, adding a nutty and slightly sweet flavor to the sandwich.
pickles - Substitute with cornichons: Cornichons can be used as a substitute for pickles, providing a tangy and crunchy element to the sandwich.
mustard - Substitute with dijon mustard: Dijon mustard can be used as a substitute for regular mustard, adding a slightly sharper and more complex flavor to the sandwich.
pam cooking spray - Substitute with olive oil spray: Olive oil spray can be used as a substitute for pam cooking spray, providing a light coating for grilling or toasting the sandwich.

How to Plate and Present a Turkey Cuban Sandwich

Elevate the sandwich with artisanal bread: Use a freshly baked, crusty French bread to add a touch of sophistication and elevate the overall presentation.
Artfully arrange the sandwich components: Carefully layer the turkey breast, ham, and Alpine Lace Swiss cheese to create a visually appealing and balanced composition.
Garnish with precision: Add a touch of finesse by garnishing the plate with a small bundle of fresh herbs or a delicate drizzle of balsamic reduction for a pop of color and flavor.
Incorporate a side of house-made pickles: Serve the sandwich alongside a small jar of house-made pickles to showcase attention to detail and add a complementary element to the dish.
Present with a touch of elegance: Use a sleek, minimalist plate to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the sandwich, allowing the ingredients to take center stage.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making a Turkey Cuban Sandwich

Cutting board: A flat, sturdy surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile, all-purpose knife used for chopping, slicing, and dicing.
Sandwich press: A kitchen appliance used to heat and toast sandwiches, often with ridged plates for creating grill marks.
Pam cooking spray: A non-stick cooking spray used to prevent food from sticking to pans and grills.

Storing and Freezing Tips for Turkey Cuban Sandwiches

To store leftover turkey cuban sandwiches, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the sandwiches. Wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Then, place the wrapped sandwiches in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the bag with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen sandwiches, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, unwrap the sandwich and place it in a preheated sandwich press or panini grill until heated through and the bread is crispy. Alternatively, you can wrap the thawed sandwich in foil and heat it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.
If you prefer to freeze the ingredients separately, you can store the sliced turkey breast, ham, and swiss cheese in separate freezer-safe bags or containers. Thaw the ingredients in the refrigerator overnight before assembling and grilling the sandwiches.
To maintain the best quality of the bread, it's recommended to freeze the sandwiches without the bread. When ready to serve, thaw the filling ingredients and assemble the sandwiches with fresh bread before grilling.

The Best Methods for Reheating Leftover Turkey Cuban Sandwiches

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the leftover turkey cuban sandwich in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes until the sandwich is heated through and the cheese is melted. This method will help maintain the crispiness of the bread while ensuring the filling is hot and delicious.
If you have a panini press or sandwich maker, preheat it to medium-high heat. Place the leftover sandwich on the press and close the lid. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the exterior is crispy and the inside is heated through. This method will give you a freshly pressed sandwich that tastes just as good as when it was first made.
For a quick and easy reheating method, use your microwave. Place the leftover sandwich on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 30-45 seconds. If the sandwich isn't heated through, continue microwaving in 15-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature. Keep in mind that microwaving may cause the bread to become slightly soggy.
If you want to reheat your sandwich on the stovetop, heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Brush the exterior of the sandwich with a little butter or olive oil to help crisp up the bread. Place the sandwich on the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and heated through. Press down gently on the sandwich with a spatula to ensure even heating.

Interesting Trivia About the Origins of the Cuban Sandwich

Cuban sandwich is a popular item in the United States, especially in Florida. It is said to have originated in Cuban immigrant communities in Florida as a convenient and tasty lunch option for workers. The sandwich is a fusion of Cuban and American cuisine, featuring ingredients such as ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all pressed between slices of Cuban bread. This unique blend of flavors and cultural influences has made the Cuban sandwich a beloved classic in American cuisine.

Budget-Friendly: Making Turkey Cuban Sandwiches at Home

The cost-effectiveness of this turkey cuban sandwich recipe is quite high. The ingredients are fairly affordable and readily available, making it a budget-friendly option for a household. The use of turkey breast and ham provides a good source of protein, while the addition of swiss cheese and pickles adds flavor without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20, making it a cost-effective meal option. Overall Verdict: 8/10

Is a Turkey Cuban Sandwich Healthy or Unhealthy?

The turkey Cuban sandwich recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side. The main culprits are the refined carbohydrates in the French bread, the saturated fat in the Swiss cheese, and the sodium content from the ham, turkey, and pickles. Additionally, using Pam cooking spray adds unnecessary fat and calories to the sandwich.

To make this sandwich healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Swap the French bread for a whole-grain or multigrain bread to increase the fiber content and provide more nutrients
Use low-fat or reduced-fat Swiss cheese to cut down on the saturated fat content
Opt for low-sodium turkey and ham to reduce the overall sodium intake
Add some fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomato, or onion to the sandwich for added nutrients and fiber
Instead of using Pam cooking spray, lightly brush the sandwich press with olive oil, which is a healthier fat option
Serve the sandwich with a side salad or fresh fruit to balance out the meal and add more vitamins and minerals

By making these simple adjustments, you can enjoy a tasty Cuban sandwich while also making it a more well-rounded and nutritious meal. Remember, moderation is key, and indulging in a less-than-healthy sandwich occasionally is perfectly fine as part of a balanced diet.

Editor's Opinion: Why This Turkey Cuban Sandwich Recipe Stands Out

This turkey Cuban sandwich recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The combination of tender turkey, savory ham, and gooey Swiss cheese, complemented by tangy pickles and zesty mustard, creates a mouthwatering experience. The use of a sandwich press adds a satisfying crunch to the crust while melting the cheese to perfection. It's a simple yet satisfying dish that is sure to please the palate.

Enhance Your Turkey Cuban Sandwich Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives, topped with a dollop of butter.

Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection and drizzled with a balsamic glaze.

Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits, tossed in a light citrus dressing and garnished with fresh mint leaves.

Delicious Variations on the Classic Cuban Sandwich Recipe

Spicy Beef Tacos: Create a flavorful and spicy beef taco recipe using ground beef, taco seasoning, and your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese.

Mango Salsa Chicken: Prepare a delicious mango salsa chicken dish by grilling or baking chicken breasts and topping them with a fresh and tangy mango salsa made with diced mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Whip up a comforting and creamy tomato basil soup using canned tomatoes, fresh basil, heavy cream, and a touch of garlic for a satisfying and warming meal.

Berry Cobbler: Indulge in a sweet and fruity berry cobbler dessert made with a mix of your favorite berries, a buttery biscuit topping, and a sprinkle of sugar for a delightful treat.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Your Turkey Cuban Sandwich

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these delectable bite-sized treats filled with a savory mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs.

Crispy Zucchini Fritters: Enjoy these crispy and flavorful fritters made with fresh zucchini, herbs, and a hint of parmesan cheese. Perfect for a light and tasty appetizer option.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Berry Parfait: Layered with fresh berries, creamy yogurt, and crunchy granola, this berry parfait is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors. It's a refreshing and light dessert option for any occasion.

Why trust this Turkey Cuban Sandwich Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a mouthwatering experience with its combination of turkey, ham, and swiss cheese. The addition of mustard and pickles provides a burst of flavor, while the use of a sandwich press ensures a perfect, crispy crust. The method of melting the cheese and toasting the bread creates a delightful texture that will surely satisfy your cravings. Trust in the simplicity and deliciousness of this Cuban sandwich recipe for a delightful meal.

Share your thoughts on the Turkey Cuban Sandwich Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make this classic sandwich even better!

FAQ:

What type of bread is best for this sandwich?

I recommend using a French bread for this sandwich. Its crusty exterior and soft interior make it perfect for holding all the delicious fillings.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for Alpine Lace Swiss cheese, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or even a spicy pepper jack for a unique twist.

Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sandwich ahead of time, but I recommend pressing it in the sandwich press just before serving to ensure the bread stays crispy and the cheese is perfectly melted.

Can I substitute the turkey with another protein?

Of course! You can swap the turkey for roast chicken, roast beef, or even grilled vegetables for a vegetarian option. The key is to use your favorite fillings to make it your own.

Can I skip the pickles?

While the pickles add a tangy crunch to the sandwich, you can certainly omit them if you're not a fan. Feel free to customize the fillings to suit your taste preferences.