Fresh Mozzarella Picnic Sandwiches with Artichokes, Prosciutto, and Balsamic Vinegar

This is my new favorite sandwich and I adore it.  I think it would be perfect for a picnic although I haven't been on a picnic so far this fall because my life will not slow down long enough to fit one in. 

Go on a picnic, okay?

You could certainly substitute regular balsamic vinegar if you can't find aged (I got mine at Publix).  Don't leave it off, though, because it gives this sandwich a wonderful, tangy flavor.

I used an herbed foccacia bread for the sandwich pictured above, but I've also used ciabatta rolls.  To me, the prosciutto is just an accent.  Just one little slice is all you'll need for each sandwich.  (Hello, Wayne County.  Wal-mart has prosciutto now!)

Fresh Mozzarella Picnic Sandwiches with Artichokes, Prosciutto, and Balsamic Vinegar

Printable Recipe

Herbed Foccacia or ciabatta bread, split and cut into sandwich size slices

Aged balsamic vinegar

Fresh mozzarella slices

Thinly sliced prosciutto

Marinated artichokes, drained

Spring blend lettuce mix or arugula

Extra Virgin Olive oil

Freshly ground black pepper

Toast the bread underneath broiler until golden brown.  Drizzle the cut sides of the bread with the balsamic vinegar.  Layer the mozzarella, prosciutto, artichokes, and greens on the bottom half of the sandwich.  Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper.  Top with remaining bread slice and wrap with deli paper or parchment paper.