master-cooks | Pesto Caprese Panini Recipe

The Pesto Caprese Panini is a delightful Italian-inspired sandwich that combines fresh, vibrant ingredients to create a satisfying meal. Start by choosing a good quality ciabatta or focaccia bread, which provides a sturdy base and a slight crunch when grilled. Slice the bread and generously spread pesto on both halves, which adds a rich, herby flavor. Layer fresh mozzarella slices, ripe tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves on one half of the bread. The mozzarella melts beautifully when heated, providing a creamy contrast to the juicy tomatoes and fragrant basil. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients. Close the sandwich with the other half of the bread and brush the outside with olive oil for a golden, crispy finish. Grill the panini on a panini press or in a skillet, pressing down with a spatula, until the bread is toasted and the cheese has melted. Serve hot, and enjoy the harmonious blend of textures and tastes. This panini is perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner, offering a taste of Italy in every bite.

Gather all the ingredients for the pesto Caprese panini recipe

For this tasty pesto Caprese panini, you'll only require a handful of ingredients: ciabatta, basil pesto, fresh mozzarella, salt, black pepper, tomatoes, basil leaves, and balsamic vinegar. Given the recipe's simplicity, it's essential to choose fresh, high-quality ingredients to achieve the best flavor.

Step 1: Slice the ciabatta

Cut the ciabatta in half horizontally and then vertically, resulting in 4 equal sections (2 tops and 2 bottoms).

Step 2: Spread the pesto

Apply pesto to all four slices.

Step 3: Add the mozzarella cheese

Arrange mozzarella slices on one side of each half-loaf.

Step 4: Season with salt and pepper

Dust with salt and black pepper.

Step 5: Add fresh basil on top

Add fresh basil leaves on top of the mozzarella.

Step 6: Place tomato slices on top

Arrange the tomato slices over the basil.

Step 7: Drizzle balsamic

Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the tomatoes.

Step 8: Close the sandwich

Top the sandwich with the upper slices of bread.

Step 9: Cook the sandwich using panini press

Put each sandwich in a heated panini press and grill for approximately 2 minutes, or until the cheese begins to melt a little.

Step 10: Serve right away

Serve the panini warm.

How do you store the pesto Caprese panini and can you make it in advance?

If you have any leftover pesto Caprese panini, you can keep them in the refrigerator. After cooking the panini, let it cool to room temperature. Then, wrap it securely in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to two days. Alternatively, you can prepare the panini in advance by assembling it and storing it uncooked in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply place it in the panini press and cook according to the recipe instructions.

Remember that the longer the panini sits, the more moisture the bread will absorb from the fillings, so it's best to consume it on the same day for the best texture and flavor. Avoid leaving the sandwiches at room temperature, as this can make the bread stale, and refrain from freezing them, as the freezing and thawing process can lead to soggy bread and alter the texture of the other ingredients.

How should you serve pesto caprese panini?

The pesto Caprese panini is substantial enough to serve as a main course for lunch or dinner, yet it’s a flexible sandwich that can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Regardless of how you decide to present it, it’s best enjoyed warm and fresh from the panini press. Pair it with a bowl of soup, a salad, or some fries for a well-rounded meal. If you’re hosting a gathering, consider slicing the panini into smaller portions to serve as appetizers. It would make a delightful addition to a charcuterie board or appetizer platter.

This panini also makes for an excellent on-the-go meal. Pack it in a lunch box or picnic basket for a delicious and fulfilling lunch. The combination of pesto, mozzarella, and tomatoes in the panini complements a glass of wine, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, transforming a simple sandwich into an elegant dining experience. You can also enhance it with grilled chicken for extra protein or roasted vegetables for a heartier option.

Pesto Caprese Panini Recipe