ZUCCHINI SLAW SANDWICH
This glorious sandwich is all about textures: a soft bun, juicy zucchini, crunchy nuts and crisp, salty ham. The serrano, pistachios and ricotta spread can be prepped ahead of time, but cut and toss the zucchini just before serving—otherwise it will be soggy. Choose your favourite crisp-on-the-outside, soft-on-theinside buns here.
⅓ cup plus 1 tbsp (80 mL plus 15 mL) olive oil, divided
4 thin slices serrano ham
½ cup (125 mL) pistachios
1 cup (250 mL) ricotta
½ cup (125 mL) finely grated
Pecorino Romano
3 tsp (15 mL) honey, divided
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 tsp (10 mL) finely grated lemon zest
1 tbsp (15 mL) lemon juice
Pinch dried chili flakes
2 medium zucchinis, about 12 oz (340 g) total weight
¼ cup (60 mL) chopped mint
1 tbsp (15 mL) toasted sesame seeds (optional) 4 light, crispy sandwich buns, split and lightly toasted
1 Heat 1 tbsp (15 mL) oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry serrano ham slices flat in a single layer, working in batches if necessary, for 3 minutes, turning midway, or until crisp. Remove to a paper-towel-lined plate (ham crisps may be made several hours in advance, covered and held at room temperature).
2 Arrange pistachios on a baking tray and roast in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 8 minutes. Let cool then roughly chop. Set aside.
3 Stir together the ricotta, Pecorino and 2 tsp (10 mL) honey. Season to taste with salt and pepper (ricotta mixture may be prepared up to a day in advance, covered and refrigerated until ready to finish sandwiches).
4 Once ready to assemble, whisk together the remaining ⅓ cup (80 mL) olive oil, lemon zest, juice, chili flakes and remaining 1 tsp (5 mL) honey in a large bowl.
5 Using a julienne peeler or mandoline, julienne the zucchini (or alternatively, coarsely grate). Add to bowl along with the mint, pistachios and sesame seeds. Toss to combine and season to taste with salt and pepper. Divide ricotta mixture between bottom buns, then top each with a generous portion of the slaw. Place a piece of serrano ham over each, breaking to fit as necessary. Sandwich with the top buns and serve immediately.
Serves 4