Let’s face it: most sandwiches are forgettable. But the Turkey Pesto Sandwich? That’s a whole different game. It’s bold, herbaceous, juicy, and cheesy all in one perfect bite. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weekday lunch or prepping a gourmet picnic meal, this sandwich delivers rich Mediterranean flavor with minimal effort.
Looking for even more bold sandwich inspiration? Don’t miss our Jalapeño Popper Grilled Cheese, it’s another crave-worthy upgrade for your lunch routine.
Jump To
Why This Turkey Pesto Sandwich Recipe Works Every Time
Bold Flavors, Simple Assembly
This isn’t your average turkey sandwich. The creamy pesto, juicy turkey slices, melted cheese, and fresh greens work together like magic. It tastes like something from a fancy café, but comes together in minutes.
Perfectly Balanced Bite
The richness of the pesto gets lifted by the tangy cheese and crisp veggies. Meanwhile, the turkey brings lean protein, making it satisfying without being heavy.
Customizable and Versatile
Enjoy it hot or cold. Serve it toasted, grilled, or wrapped. This sandwich adapts to your mood, diet, or time limit.
What Goes in a Turkey Pesto Sandwich?
Classic Core Ingredients
- Sliced turkey breast (deli or roasted)
- Basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- Mozzarella or provolone cheese
- Fresh bread like sourdough, ciabatta, or focaccia
Add-On Ideas to Elevate Flavor
- Arugula or spinach for a peppery bite
- Sun-dried tomatoes for rich umami
- Avocado slices for creamy texture
- Roasted red peppers for sweet & smoky flavor
Looking for more lunch-ready recipes? Try our Vegetable Tortilla Roll-Ups, easy, packable, and customizable!
How to Assemble the Ultimate Turkey Pesto Sandwich
Bread Tips
- Use a thicker bread like ciabatta or sourdough to absorb the pesto without getting soggy
- Lightly toast bread before assembling for added structure
Layering Like a Pro
- Spread pesto on both slices of bread
- Add turkey, then cheese
- Top with greens and other add-ons
- Close and press gently
Keep It Crisp
Add moist ingredients like tomatoes or avocado last, and dry greens in a paper towel first to avoid a soggy sandwich.
Homemade vs. Store-Bought Pesto – What’s Best?
Store-Bought: Quick & Convenient
Use refrigerated versions with fresh basil and olive oil. Avoid shelf-stable ones with fillers or added sugar.
Homemade Pesto (Simple Recipe)
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- ¼ cup pine nuts or walnuts
- 2 garlic cloves
- ½ cup olive oil
- Salt & lemon juice to taste
Blend until smooth and adjust seasoning. You can refrigerate leftovers for up to 5 days.
Cheese, Greens & Extras – Build a Balanced Bite
Cheese Choices That Melt Perfectly
- Mozzarella: Creamy and mild
- Provolone: Slightly sharper and stretchy
- Swiss or Havarti: Melty and buttery
Add Some Crunch or Cream
- Arugula or baby spinach
- Sliced avocado or cucumbers
- Crispy onions or fried shallots for texture
Craving a lighter combo to pair it with? Try our Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad, fresh and protein-packed.
Hot or Cold – Toasting Techniques & Serving Options
Cold Sandwich
Pack it with pre-toasted bread, wrap tightly, and store chilled. Great for work lunches or picnics.
Toasted or Grilled
- Use a panini press or grill pan for those crispy golden lines
- Place sandwich in a skillet and press with a spatula until cheese melts
- Broil open-faced sandwiches before closing for melted cheese tops
Is Turkey Pesto Sandwich Healthy? Let’s Break It Down
Nutritional Benefits
- Turkey is lean and protein-rich
- Pesto provides healthy fats from olive oil and nuts
- Whole grain bread adds fiber
Lighten It Up
- Use light cheese or skip it altogether
- Swap regular pesto for a Greek yogurt pesto blend
- Add extra greens to bulk it up without calories
Looking for more lunch hacks? Don’t miss our Wrap Lunch Ideas for Work.
Turkey Pesto Sandwich Variations Worth Trying
Turkey Pesto Grilled Cheese
Boost the flavor with more cheese, then grill in a skillet until perfectly melted.
Avocado Turkey Pesto Wrap
Roll it all up in a spinach tortilla and toast lightly.
Turkey Pesto Lettuce Wraps
Low-carb version using romaine or butter lettuce instead of bread.
Mediterranean Turkey Sandwich
Add feta, cucumbers, olives, and tzatziki for a Greek-style twist.
Love bold flavors? Check out these Chicken Caesar Smash Tacos for another creative hand-held meal.
FAQs about Turkey Pesto Sandwich
What goes in a turkey pesto sandwich?
It typically includes sliced turkey, basil pesto, mozzarella or provolone cheese, and fresh greens on hearty bread like ciabatta or sourdough.
What goes well with pesto in a sandwich?
Pesto pairs well with turkey, mozzarella, provolone, arugula, tomato, roasted peppers, avocado, and even bacon or grilled chicken.
What is pesto sandwich made of?
A pesto sandwich uses pesto as the main sauce and can include proteins like turkey or chicken, cheese, and fresh vegetables inside bread or wraps.
Is turkey pesto sandwich healthy?
Yes! It provides lean protein, healthy fats, and nutrients depending on your ingredients. Use whole grain bread and low-sodium turkey for the best results.
Conclusion:
There’s a reason the turkey pesto sandwich is a favorite in cafés, delis, and home kitchens alike, it’s satisfying, bursting with flavor, and totally customizable. Whether you’re enjoying it cold with fresh greens or hot with melted cheese and toasted bread, this sandwich is everything you want in a balanced lunch.
Want to try something even more savory and rolled up? Don’t miss our Rolled Chicken with Feta and Spinach for another easy, flavor-packed lunch idea, and don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest.
Turkey Pesto Sandwich
Ingredients
Method
- Lightly toast your bread slices (optional) to help prevent sogginess.
- Spread 1–1.5 tablespoons of basil pesto on each slice of bread.
- On two of the bread slices, add a layer of sliced turkey, followed by cheese, avocado, tomato, and greens.
- Top with the remaining pesto-covered bread slices.
- For a warm and melty finish, heat a skillet over medium heat. Lightly butter the outside of the sandwich and toast on both sides until golden brown and cheese is melted (about 2–3 minutes per side).
- Slice in half and serve immediately with your favorite side salad or chips.
