This picnic-perfect sandwich is loaded with turkey, pepper and manchego.

The Deets
Here’s a perfect lunch idea for the week: a flavorful turkey sandwich loaded with pistachio pesto, nutty manchego cheese, roasted red peppers, and fresh arugula, all tucked between your favorite bread. It’s a simple, yet mouthwatering combination that packs a serious punch of flavor in every bite.
The beauty of this sandwich lies in the balance of ingredients—each one playing its own part to create something truly special. The turkey is tender and lean, providing the perfect protein base, while the manchego adds a rich, nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly. Roasted red peppers bring a subtle sweetness and a smoky depth that pairs beautifully with the peppery bite of arugula. But the real star of the show has to be the pistachio pesto.
This pistachio pesto is a game changer—it’s vibrant, creamy, and packed with that irresistible nuttiness that makes it versatile enough to use on almost anything. It’s made with a blend of fresh basil, pistachios, garlic, olive oil, and a squeeze of lemon, creating a spread that’s so flavorful and fragrant, you’ll find yourself slathering it on everything from sandwiches to pasta to salads. Trust me when I say, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
What’s great about this sandwich is how quick and easy it is to assemble, making it an ideal option for a mid-week lunch when you want something delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen. You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, and then it’s just a matter of layering everything together. The combination of textures—the crunch of the pistachios, the creaminess of the manchego, and the softness of the roasted peppers—makes every bite interesting and satisfying.
Whether you’re packing it for a lunch on the go, or enjoying it as a quick meal at home, this turkey sandwich with pistachio pesto is guaranteed to elevate your lunch game. It’s simple, but with flavors this bold, it feels like a gourmet treat. If you enjoyed this sandwich, check out my other sandwich ideas here!

Ingredients
- 2 slices bread of choice
- 2 tbsp roasted red peppers, sliced
- 3 slices manchego cheese
- 1 handful arugula
- olive oil
The pesto
- 3/4 cup basil leaves
- 3/4 cup olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pistachios
- salt/pepper
Instructions
- Make your pesto. In a food processor, add pesto ingredients and blend. Taste test and adjust accordingly.
- Coat bread in olive oil and cook in a skillet on medium heat for about 2-3 min per side
- Add pesto to bread, and then add turkey, manchego, peppers and arugula. Close sandwich and serve. Enjoy!
Video
Notes
Here’s how to make it: