Video and Recipe by Chef Shane Fatemian
Here’s a straightforward take on a flavorful sandwich that balances savory, creamy, and tangy elements without overcomplicating the process. The combination of mortadella, a soft cheese like stracciatella or burrata, and a homemade pistachio spread offers a satisfying contrast of textures and tastes. It’s ideal for a casual lunch or a simple gathering.
Ingredients:
For the Sandwich:
• ½ pound thinly sliced mortadella
• 4 tablespoons stracciatella cheese, or burrata torn and mixed
• 5 tablespoons pistachio spread (see below)
• 1 large loaf of fresh bread (any style you prefer)
• 4 pickles (such as Sadaf brand or similar)
For the Pistachio Spread:
• 6 oz roasted, salted, shelled pistachios, blended until fine
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
• 1–2 tablespoons Calabrian chili paste (adjust to taste)
• Olive oil, added gradually until the mixture is thick and spreadable
• Salt, to taste
Assembly Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spread:
In a food processor, combine the blended pistachios, Parmesan, lemon zest and juice, and chili paste. Slowly add olive oil while blending until the mixture reaches a creamy, spreadable consistency. Season with salt to taste.
2. Build the Sandwich:
Slice the loaf of bread horizontally. Spread a layer of pistachio spread on one side. Add the mortadella slices evenly, followed by spoonfuls of stracciatella or burrata. Top with pickles for acidity and crunch. Close the sandwich with the other half of the bread.
3. Serve:
Slice and serve immediately
