Not Alone, Why Did the Turtle Cross the Road?, Pressed Sandwich

1. Steve arrived home from his trip. There's nothing special going on and it's a boring afternoon, but he's around here somewhere and that makes all the difference.
2. That was a big turtle we helped cross the road today! I think it hissed at me.
3. New basil is ripening fast and we needed to use up the pesto in the freezer from last year. So, I made an Italian pressed sandwich for an easy dinner today.

Pressed Italian Sandwich

Slice open a loaf of Ciabatta. I spread the bottom with a hearty layer of pesto. Then layer your choice of about 1/2 pound of deli meats. (I used ham and salami.). Follow with a layer of cheese. (I used provolone.) Top with sliced roasted red peppers and fresh basil leaves, then drizzle a little olive oil on the cut side of the top bread. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap. Place a cutting board on top and weight it with a heavy skillet, 2-liter bottle of soda, or some large cans. Refrigerate from an hour to overnight. Slice and serve.

Photo courtesy of www.seasonsandsuppers.ca