Turkey panini with smoked-Gouda spread

Serves 6

The spread will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

SPREAD

3	ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
1 1/2	cups coarsely shredded smoked Gouda
1/2	cup mayonnaise
1/2	cup chopped bottled roasted red peppers
1	tablespoon cider vinegar
1/2	teaspoon salt
1/2	teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2	teaspoon hot sauce

1. In a food processor work the cream cheese, Gouda, and mayonnaise until smooth.

2. Add the red peppers, vinegar, salt, pepper, and hot sauce. Pulse the mixture until it is well blended.

SANDWICHES

12	slices of Italian bread (ciabatta if possible)
12	slices of cooked turkey breast
12	slices of Muenster cheese
	Bunch of watercress (leaves only), rinsed and patted dry

1. Heat a panini press or set a cast-iron grill pan on medium-low heat for about 10 minutes. Wrap a brick in foil.

2. Spread 6 slices of bread with some of the Gouda mixture. Add 2 slices of turkey and 2 slices of cheese. Close up the sandwiches.

3. Work with as many sandwiches as will fit on the press or in the grill pan. Place them on the press or grill and set the brick or a heavy pan on top. Heat panini for about 5 minutes, checking the bottoms often. If using a grill pan, flip the panini and place the brick or pan back on top. If the filling starts to ooze out, lift off the brick or pan and continue grilling until the other side is crisp and golden.

4. Remove the cooked panini from the pan, open the sandwich, and place an even layer of watercress on top. Reshape the sandwiches and halve them. Adapted from Karen Barnshaw