Caprese Panini

This warm Caprese panini brings the flavors of Italy to your kitchen with melted fresh mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, and aromatic basil. Pressed between crusty ciabatta bread, it is a delightfully crispy, gooey, and savory sandwich.

Caprese Panini
  • Prep time: 11 minutes
  • Cook time: 11 minutes
  • Total time: 22 minutes
  • Servings: 2
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 1 large ciabatta loaf, cut into 2 individual sandwich portions
  • 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
  • 1 medium ripe heirloom tomato, sliced
  • 8 fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tablespoons basil pesto
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 0.25 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Slice the ciabatta portions in half horizontally to create top and bottom pieces.
  2. Spread 1 tablespoon of basil pesto evenly onto the cut side of each bottom bread piece.
  3. Layer the fresh mozzarella slices over the pesto.
  4. Place the tomato slices on top of the mozzarella, and season them with salt and pepper.
  5. Arrange the fresh basil leaves over the tomatoes, and drizzle with the balsamic glaze.
  6. Place the top half of the ciabatta bread over the fillings to close the sandwiches.
  7. Brush the outer top and bottom of the bread lightly with the extra-virgin olive oil.
  8. Place the sandwiches in a preheated panini press and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, until the bread is crispy and the cheese is fully melted.

Tips

  • Pat the fresh mozzarella slices dry with paper towels to prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy during pressing.
  • If you do not have a panini press, use a hot skillet and weigh the sandwich down with a heavy cast-iron pan.
  • Use crusty bread like ciabatta or sourdough, as soft sandwich breads will collapse too much under pressure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Fresh basil is highly recommended for its bright flavor and texture, but a good quality basil pesto can substitute if fresh basil is unavailable.

How do I get a perfect melt on the mozzarella?

Slice the mozzarella thinly and ensure your panini press is heated to medium so the cheese melts before the bread burns.

Can I add meat to this panini?

Yes, prosciutto, grilled chicken, or turkey make excellent savory additions to a Caprese panini.