Spicy Tuscan Ciabatta Recipes

Steps:

• Slice the ciabatta loaf lengthwise.
• Prepare the sandwich by evenly layering the ingredients in this order, from the bottom up: Bottom slice of bread, drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, mixed greens, salami, provolone, roasted red peppers, sopressata, prosciutto, balsamic vinegar, top of loaf.
• Be sure each layer goes right to the ends of the bread.
• It's even ok if they hang over a bit.
• Wrap sandwich tightly in plastic cling wrap with no openings.
• Place on counter and press down entire loaf with a heavy cast iron pan or a couple of large books.
• Let sit at least 4 hours to let the oil and vinegar mingle with the other layers.
• Remove plastic wrap and, using a very sharp bread knife, cut into 2" squares or triangles.
• Secure each slice with a toothpick and serve.

Steps:

• Boil the balsamic vinegar and 3 tablespoons of sugar in a heavy small saucepan over medium-high heat until reduced to 1/2 cup, stirring occasionally, about 20 minutes.
• Toast the bread slices. Spread the butter over the toasts. Arrange the toasts on a platter. Drizzle the reduced balsamic syrup over the toasts then sprinkle with a little more sugar, and serve.