Prosciutto, Arugula, Brie and Fig Jam Panini – plus a Cool Hack!

I was researching panini  and Piadina or Piada kept coming up.  It is a thin flatbread made in Italy typically prepared in the Romagna region.  It is usually made with white flour, lard or olive oil, salt and water. The dough was traditionally cooked on a terracotta dish, although nowadays flat pans or electric griddles are commonly used. It looked something like this quick Prosciutto, Arugula, Brie and Fig Jam Panini that I make at home for the kidlets but this piadina version uses no yeast so it is an unleavened version of this.

So, searching for what to call this has left me stumped. It’s not really a panino because that means it’s made with a bun.  It’s not a pizza because we are going to split it open and fill it with glorious stuff. So, I’m just gonna call it a sammie…a crisp, warm, fresh, “hot out of the oven” sammie using two simple tricks…use raw dough and heat up your panini press!

How you serve it is up to you.  Once it’s cooked (which literally takes a minute), it can be cooked, filled and folded or cooked and opened – like it is here.  You can fill it with sweet stuff (like Nutella and strawberries…a favourite in my household) of savoury fillings like this below!  And, make it easy on yourself…use store bought pizza dough!

Prepare to embark on a culinary journey of flavors as we delve into the world of grilled paninis. Today, we bring you an extraordinary creation that combines the richness of prosciutto, the creaminess of brie, and the sweetness of fig jam. This mouthwatering combination promises to satisfy your taste buds and elevate your sandwich experience to new heights. So, grab a seat, and let’s explore the delectable wonders of the Grilled Prosciutto, Brie, and Fig Jam Panini!

A Symphony of Savory and Sweet

The first bite of this divine panini will transport you to a realm where savory and sweet harmonize in perfect balance. The prosciutto, with its delicate saltiness and irresistible texture, pairs beautifully with the creamy brie cheese. The fig jam adds a touch of luscious sweetness, tying all the flavors together into a symphony of taste. With each mouthful, you’ll experience a delightful interplay of flavors that will leave you craving more.

Prosciutto – The Crown Jewel of Cured Meats

Prosciutto, the thinly sliced, dry-cured Italian ham, takes center stage in this panini masterpiece. Its distinct flavor, obtained through a meticulous curing process, adds a depth of character to the sandwich. As it grills, the prosciutto releases its natural oils, intensifying its aroma and infusing the bread with a heavenly essence. Its slightly crispy texture adds a delightful contrast to the softness of the brie and the bread, creating a truly satisfying bite.

Brie – A Creamy Sensation

The velvety, indulgent brie cheese is a cheese lover’s dream. Known for its rich and buttery texture, it melts beautifully when heated, enveloping the prosciutto and fig jam in a luxurious embrace. Its mild, slightly nutty flavor complements the other ingredients, enhancing their taste without overpowering them. As it oozes from the panini, brie adds a creamy decadence that elevates this sandwich to a level of gastronomic excellence.

Fig Jam – A Touch of Sweet Elegance

Fig jam, a delicacy made from ripe, luscious figs, brings a touch of sweet elegance to our panini creation. This naturally sweet preserve adds a layer of complexity to the flavor profile, perfectly balancing the savory elements. The fig’s natural sweetness is enhanced during the cooking process, creating a caramelized richness that pairs exquisitely with the prosciutto and brie. Its velvety texture and subtle fruity notes leave a lingering, delightful aftertaste.

The Grilled Panini Experience

Beyond its exceptional flavors, the grilled panini experience is a delight in itself. As the panini presses down, the heat transforms the bread into a warm, toasted canvas. The outer layers of the bread become crisp and golden, while the inside remains tender, creating a beautiful contrast in textures. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch, followed by a burst of flavors as the ingredients meld together. It’s a culinary journey for your senses.

In the realm of sandwiches, the Grilled Prosciutto, Brie, and Fig Jam Panini stands as a testament to the artistry of flavor pairing (my next favourite sandwich which has been a winner with my family – my grilled veggie sandwich),. This extraordinary creation unites the saltiness of prosciutto, the creaminess of brie, and the sweetness of fig jam into a harmonious symphony of taste. With its blend of savory and sweet, the panini elevates the sandwich experience to a level of gourmet excellence. So, the next time you crave a truly remarkable meal, indulge in this divine delight that is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.

What You’ll Need to Make This Prosciutto, Brie, and Fig Jam Panini:

• pizza dough
• prosciutto
• brie
• fig jam
• arugula