Elevate Your Meals: Delicious Recipes Using Member’s Mark Fire Roasted Tomato Focaccia
Sam’s Club offers a treasure trove of culinary delights, and one of their standout offerings is the Member’s Mark Fire Roasted Tomato Focaccia bread. This isn’t your average loaf; it’s a flavorful, aromatic bread that can elevate a wide range of meals from simple sandwiches to sophisticated appetizers. Its delightful blend of fire-roasted tomatoes, herbs, and olive oil infused into a soft, airy crumb makes it incredibly versatile. In this blog post, we’ll explore creative and delicious ways to use this focaccia bread, providing detailed recipes and step-by-step instructions to help you transform it into culinary masterpieces.
Understanding the Magic of Member’s Mark Fire Roasted Tomato Focaccia
Before diving into the recipes, let’s appreciate what makes this focaccia so special. The fire-roasted tomatoes contribute a subtle smokiness and sweetness, complementing the savory herbs and the richness of the olive oil. The texture is equally important – a delightful combination of a slightly crispy crust and a soft, airy interior. This balance of flavors and textures makes it a fantastic base for various dishes.
Recipe 1: The Ultimate Focaccia Grilled Cheese
Grilled cheese is a classic comfort food, but using Member’s Mark Fire Roasted Tomato Focaccia elevates it to a gourmet experience. The flavorful bread adds depth and complexity that you won’t find in a typical grilled cheese.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 slices Member’s Mark Fire Roasted Tomato Focaccia
* 4 slices cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, your preference)
* 2 slices provolone cheese (optional, for extra gooeyness)
* 2 tablespoons butter, softened
* Optional additions: sliced tomato, caramelized onions, pesto
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Focaccia:** Lightly butter one side of each slice of focaccia. This will ensure a golden-brown crust.
2. **Assemble the Sandwich:** Place two slices of focaccia, butter-side down, in a non-stick skillet or on a griddle. Layer two slices of cheddar cheese (and one slice of provolone, if using) on each slice of bread. If you’re adding optional ingredients like sliced tomato or caramelized onions, place them on top of the cheese.
3. **Top with the Remaining Focaccia:** Place the remaining two slices of focaccia on top of the cheese, butter-side up.
4. **Grill to Perfection:** Cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey. Use a spatula to gently press down on the sandwich while it’s cooking to ensure even melting and browning.
5. **Serve and Enjoy:** Remove the grilled cheese from the skillet and let it cool for a minute or two before slicing in half and serving. Pair it with a bowl of tomato soup for the ultimate comfort meal.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Cheese Combinations:** Experiment with different cheese combinations. Gruyere, mozzarella, or pepper jack would all work well.
* **Add-Ins:** Get creative with your fillings. Roasted red peppers, spinach, or even a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning can add extra flavor and texture.
* **Pesto Power:** Spread a thin layer of pesto on the inside of the focaccia for a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor.
* **Grilled Cheese Upgrade:** Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the outside of the bread instead of butter for an extra crispy and flavorful crust. This is a chef’s secret!
Recipe 2: Focaccia Bruschetta with Balsamic Glaze
Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer, and the Member’s Mark Fire Roasted Tomato Focaccia makes a fantastic base. The bread’s robust flavor complements the fresh tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze perfectly.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 loaf Member’s Mark Fire Roasted Tomato Focaccia
* 2 cups ripe tomatoes, diced
* 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
* 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
* 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Focaccia:** Slice the focaccia into 1-inch thick slices. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil.
2. **Toast the Focaccia:** Grill the focaccia slices over medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side, or until lightly toasted and golden brown. Alternatively, you can toast them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes.
3. **Prepare the Tomato Mixture:** In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. **Assemble the Bruschetta:** Spoon the tomato mixture onto each toasted focaccia slice.
5. **Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze:** Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top of each bruschetta.
6. **Serve Immediately:** Serve the bruschetta immediately, while the focaccia is still warm and the tomatoes are fresh.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add Cheese:** Crumble some feta cheese or goat cheese over the bruschetta for added creaminess and tang.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture for a little heat.
* **Garlic Rub:** Rub the toasted focaccia slices with a clove of garlic before topping them with the tomato mixture for a more intense garlic flavor.
* **Pesto Base:** Spread a thin layer of pesto on the toasted focaccia before adding the tomato mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
Recipe 3: Focaccia Pizza with Customizable Toppings
Using focaccia as a pizza base is a game-changer. The bread’s sturdy texture and delicious flavor make it the perfect foundation for your favorite pizza toppings.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 loaf Member’s Mark Fire Roasted Tomato Focaccia
* 1 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
* 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
* Your favorite pizza toppings (pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, peppers, olives, etc.)
* Optional: grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, dried oregano
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. **Prepare the Focaccia:** Slice the focaccia horizontally to create two large, flat pizza bases.
3. **Spread the Sauce:** Spread pizza sauce evenly over the focaccia bases, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. **Add the Cheese:** Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
5. **Add Your Toppings:** Arrange your favorite pizza toppings on top of the cheese.
6. **Bake the Pizza:** Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned, and the focaccia is heated through.
7. **Garnish and Serve:** Remove the pizza from the oven and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, and dried oregano, if desired. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Pre-Bake the Crust:** For a crispier crust, pre-bake the focaccia for 5-7 minutes before adding the sauce and toppings.
* **Gourmet Toppings:** Get creative with your toppings. Try roasted vegetables, artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, or prosciutto.
* **BBQ Chicken Pizza:** Use BBQ sauce instead of pizza sauce and top with shredded chicken, red onion, and cilantro.
* **Pesto Pizza:** Use pesto instead of pizza sauce and top with mozzarella, tomatoes, and pine nuts.
Recipe 4: Focaccia Croutons for Salads and Soups
Transform stale or leftover Member’s Mark Fire Roasted Tomato Focaccia into flavorful croutons for salads and soups. These croutons add a burst of flavor and texture to any dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 1/2 loaf Member’s Mark Fire Roasted Tomato Focaccia, cubed
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Prepare the Focaccia:** Cut the focaccia into 1/2-inch cubes.
3. **Toss with Oil and Seasonings:** In a large bowl, toss the focaccia cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Make sure the cubes are evenly coated.
4. **Bake the Croutons:** Spread the focaccia cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. **Bake until Crispy:** Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and crispy. Stir them halfway through to ensure even browning.
6. **Cool and Store:** Let the croutons cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for several days.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Herb Combinations:** Experiment with different herb combinations. Try thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
* **Cheese Croutons:** Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the croutons during the last few minutes of baking for cheesy croutons.
* **Garlic Infusion:** Mince a clove of garlic and add it to the olive oil for a more intense garlic flavor.
Recipe 5: Focaccia Panini with Italian Meats and Cheeses
Create a delicious and satisfying panini using Member’s Mark Fire Roasted Tomato Focaccia as the bread. This sandwich is packed with Italian flavors and is perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 slices Member’s Mark Fire Roasted Tomato Focaccia
* 2 tablespoons pesto
* 4 slices provolone cheese
* 4 slices salami
* 4 slices prosciutto
* Roasted red peppers (optional)
* Balsamic glaze (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Focaccia:** Spread pesto on one side of each slice of focaccia.
2. **Assemble the Panini:** Layer provolone cheese, salami, prosciutto, and roasted red peppers (if using) on two slices of focaccia, pesto-side up.
3. **Top with the Remaining Focaccia:** Place the remaining two slices of focaccia on top of the fillings, pesto-side down.
4. **Grill the Panini:** Heat a panini press or grill pan over medium heat. Place the panini in the press or on the grill pan and cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
5. **Serve and Enjoy:** Remove the panini from the press or grill pan and let it cool for a minute or two before slicing in half. Drizzle with balsamic glaze, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Cheese Variety:** Use different Italian cheeses like mozzarella, fontina, or asiago.
* **Vegetable Additions:** Add other vegetables like grilled zucchini, eggplant, or artichoke hearts.
* **Spicy Kick:** Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a few slices of spicy salami for a little heat.
* **Olive Tapenade:** Spread a thin layer of olive tapenade on the focaccia for an extra layer of savory flavor.
Recipe 6: Focaccia French Toast with Berry Compote
Who says focaccia can’t be used for breakfast? This savory-sweet French toast recipe is a delicious and unexpected way to start your day.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 slices Member’s Mark Fire Roasted Tomato Focaccia
* 2 eggs
* 1/4 cup milk
* 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
* 1 tablespoon butter
* Berry compote (fresh or frozen berries cooked with a little sugar and lemon juice)
* Maple syrup (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Egg Mixture:** In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
2. **Soak the Focaccia:** Dip each slice of focaccia into the egg mixture, making sure to coat both sides. Let the focaccia soak for a minute or two to absorb the mixture.
3. **Cook the French Toast:** Melt butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the soaked focaccia slices in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
4. **Serve with Berry Compote:** Top the French toast with berry compote and drizzle with maple syrup, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Savory French Toast:** Omit the vanilla extract and cinnamon for a more savory French toast. Serve with a fried egg and some crispy bacon.
* **Cheese Filling:** Spread a layer of cream cheese or mascarpone cheese between two slices of focaccia before dipping them in the egg mixture.
* **Nutella Swirl:** Swirl a spoonful of Nutella into the egg mixture for a chocolatey twist.
* **Citrus Zest:** Add a pinch of orange or lemon zest to the egg mixture for a bright and citrusy flavor.
Recipe 7: Focaccia Stuffing for Holiday Meals
Elevate your holiday stuffing with the unique flavor of Member’s Mark Fire Roasted Tomato Focaccia. This stuffing is packed with savory herbs, vegetables, and Italian sausage for a truly unforgettable side dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 loaf Member’s Mark Fire Roasted Tomato Focaccia, cubed and dried
* 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casings
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 celery stalks, chopped
* 2 carrots, chopped
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup chicken broth
* 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
* 1/4 cup fresh sage, chopped
* 1/4 cup fresh thyme, chopped
* 2 eggs, beaten
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Focaccia:** Cut the focaccia into 1-inch cubes and let them dry out overnight, or toast them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 20-30 minutes.
2. **Cook the Sausage:** In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease.
3. **Sauté the Vegetables:** Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. **Combine the Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the dried focaccia cubes, cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, chicken broth, parsley, sage, thyme, eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. **Bake the Stuffing:** Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish.
6. **Bake until Golden Brown:** Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Mushroom Addition:** Add sliced mushrooms to the vegetables for a deeper, earthier flavor.
* **Dried Cranberries:** Add dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness and tartness.
* **Nutty Crunch:** Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
* **Wine Enhancement:** Deglaze the skillet with a splash of dry white wine after cooking the sausage and vegetables for added flavor.
Recipe 8: Focaccia Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce
Transform Member’s Mark Fire Roasted Tomato Focaccia into a decadent dessert with this bread pudding recipe. The savory notes of the focaccia complement the sweetness of the caramel sauce perfectly.
**Ingredients:**
* 1/2 loaf Member’s Mark Fire Roasted Tomato Focaccia, cubed
* 2 cups milk
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 4 eggs
* 1/2 cup sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
* Pinch of salt
* Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Prepare the Focaccia:** Cut the focaccia into 1-inch cubes.
3. **Whisk the Custard:** In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
4. **Soak the Focaccia:** Place the focaccia cubes in a greased baking dish and pour the custard mixture over them. Gently press down on the focaccia to ensure that it is fully submerged in the custard. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour.
5. **Bake the Bread Pudding:** Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the bread pudding is set and golden brown.
6. **Serve with Caramel Sauce:** Let the bread pudding cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with caramel sauce and enjoy.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Chocolate Chips:** Add chocolate chips to the bread pudding for a chocolatey treat.
* **Dried Fruit:** Add dried raisins, cranberries, or apricots for added texture and flavor.
* **Nutmeg Spice:** Substitute nutmeg for cinnamon for a warmer, spicier flavor.
* **Bourbon Infusion:** Add a tablespoon of bourbon to the custard mixture for a boozy twist.
Recipe 9: Focaccia Stuffing for Chicken Breast
Stuffing chicken breasts with Fire Roasted Tomato Focaccia provides a delicious one-pan meal solution. The savory stuffing keeps the chicken moist and adds incredible flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1/2 loaf Member’s Mark Fire Roasted Tomato Focaccia, cubed
* 1/2 cup chicken broth
* 1/4 cup chopped celery
* 1/4 cup chopped onion
* 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
* 2 tablespoons melted butter
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cube the focaccia into small pieces. In a medium bowl, combine the focaccia cubes, chicken broth, celery, onion, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Cut a pocket into each chicken breast. Stuff each pocket with the focaccia mixture. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.
4. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add chopped mushrooms or spinach to the stuffing mixture for added nutrients and flavor.
* Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Gruyere, for a unique twist.
* Marinate the chicken breasts in Italian dressing for 30 minutes before stuffing for added flavor.
Recipe 10: Focaccia & Vegetable Skewers with Balsamic Marinade
Combine the delightful flavors of Fire Roasted Tomato Focaccia with colorful veggies in a vibrant appetizer.
**Ingredients:**
* 1/2 loaf Member’s Mark Fire Roasted Tomato Focaccia, cubed
* 1 red bell pepper, cubed
* 1 yellow bell pepper, cubed
* 1 zucchini, cubed
* 1 red onion, cubed
* 1/4 cup olive oil
* 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Wooden skewers
**Instructions:**
1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. On each skewer, thread focaccia cubes, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion. Alternate the ingredients to create a colorful and appealing presentation.
3. Brush the skewers generously with the balsamic marinade. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat grill to medium heat. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the focaccia is lightly toasted.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add cherry tomatoes or mushrooms to the skewers for extra flavor and variety.
* For a spicier marinade, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
* Serve with a side of tzatziki sauce or hummus for dipping.
Conclusion
Member’s Mark Fire Roasted Tomato Focaccia from Sam’s Club is more than just bread; it’s a versatile ingredient that can transform ordinary meals into extraordinary culinary experiences. From classic grilled cheese sandwiches to elegant bruschetta and innovative bread puddings, the possibilities are endless. These recipes offer just a starting point for your culinary adventures. So, grab a loaf of this flavorful focaccia and let your creativity run wild. Happy cooking!