Simple Italian Sandwiches

March 13, 2006
The Dentons' first book is as perfect in its simplicity as the panini that fans line up for at the authors' tiny New York restaurants, 'ino and 'inoteca. Known for their magic with a panini grill, the couple have put together an accessible, comprehensive guide to the ingredients and techniques (often involving a panini grill) that yield their delicious signature variations on the Italian pressed sandwich, such as Italian Tuna, Oven-Roasted Tomato and Arugula Panini; Sweet Coppa and Hot Pepper Panini; and Artichoke, Fennel and Fontina Panini. They also offer an array of open-faced bruschetti, from Caponata and Goat Cheese Bruschetta to Fig, Prosciutto and Arugula Bruschetta. Less familiar are tramezzini, crustless white bread sandwiches that are a popular Italian between-meal snack, and the book offers an entire section on these oft-ignored finger sandwiches, from savory combos such as Pancetta, Arugula and Oven-Roasted Tomato Tramezzini to simpler fare such as Egg Salad Tramezzini. Warm and inviting guides to a rustic cuisine they love, the Dentons include sections on aperitifs, antipasti and salads—and put the pleasures of an Italian tradition within the reach of every American home cook. 35 full-color photos.

May 15, 2006
The Dentons are the husband-and-wife owners of the wildly popular 'ino, an Italian sandwich bar in New York -s West Village, and its spin-off, 'inoteca (Jason is also a partner with Mario Batali in his restaurants Lupa and Otto). Their kitchen at 'ino is tiny -the cooking equipment is made up of a hot plate, a toaster oven, and two sandwich presses -but they are able to turn out an array of delectable pressed sandwiches, bruschetta, and tramezzini (similar to tea sandwiches) with a variety of delicious condiments. Their simple but inspired recipes translate easily to the home kitchen, especially now that panini presses have become widely available. High-quality ingredients are essential here, of course, and the authors begin with a guide to -The Basics, - from ciabatta to Italian cheeses. Color photographs add to the appeal of this inviting little cookbook; for most collections.

Copyright 2006 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.