If you don't have a countertop grill or a panini press, you can still enjoy pressed panini-style sandwiches. These panini sandwiches are made in the waffle maker, which gives them a crispy exterior and a fun waffled texture. Pair them with a bowl of soup for lunch, or cut them into squares to serve at a party - this recipe is very easy to multiply. Heat the waffle maker to medium-high setting. Meanwhile, spread 4 slices of bread thinly with Dijon mustard, about 1 teaspoon per slice. Spread the remaining 4 slices of bread with raspberry preserves, about 2 teaspoons per slice. On top of the mustard-spread pieces of bread, layer a slice of turkey and a slice of cheese. Place the remaining pieces of bread on top of the cheese, with the preserves on the inside. Use a knife to cut off the bread crusts and any overhanging meat and cheese. When the waffle maker is heated, spray the cooking surface lightly with cooking spray. Place one sandwich onto the center of the waffle maker (if your waffle maker makes waffles that are sectioned into quarters, be sure to center the sandwich over the middle of the design. Close the waffle maker tightly, pressing the sandwich. Cook until the exterior of the sandwich starts to get crisp and golden, and the cheese melts, about 2 minutes. Remove the sandwich from the waffle iron and let cool for a moment before cutting into quarters. Repeat with the remaining sandwiches. Serve warm.
Note: For a party, a large batch of these sandwiches can be made ahead of time. You can cook them in the waffle maker and place them on a parchment-lined sheet pan. They can keep at room temperature for up to 1 hour. To reheat, turn the sandwiches over and heat in a 350?F oven until they are crisp and the cheese gets melty, about 10 minutes.
Serves 4.
