Pesto Panini with Fresh Mozzarella and Tomato
User Reviews
5
Pesto Panini with Fresh Mozzarella and Tomato
Description
The Pesto Panini with Fresh Mozzarella and Tomato is made by spreading pesto on each bread slice followed by fresh mozzarella slices and tomato. A pinch of salt enhances the flavors before the sandwich is closed and the outer bread sides are buttered. Cooking takes place on a panini press or in a skillet over medium-low heat until the bread is toasted to a golden brown and the mozzarella melts completely. The type of bread can vary, including sourdough, ciabatta, focaccia, or white bakery bread, each offering a different texture and density.
Once grilled, the sandwich offers a mix of creamy melted mozzarella, tangy and fresh tomato, and the herb and garlic notes of pesto, all contrasted by a crisp, buttery bread crust. This panini works well as a lunch or light dinner option, paired with a salad or soup.
The recipe notes suggest using sourdough but allow flexibility with bread choice. Quality fresh mozzarella and a good homemade pesto can elevate the sandwich further.
Ingredients
- 12 lices bread (sourdough, ciabatta, focaccia, or white bakery bread)
- 1 cup pesto
- 2 large tomato sliced into 1/4" slices
- (1) ounce ball mozzarella cheese fresh
- salt
- butter
Instructions
- Preheat panini grill, if using. Spread pesto on each slice of bread. Place mozzarella slices on top of pesto.
- Layer with fresh tomatoes. Sprinkle with salt. Place the remaining slices of bread, pesto side down, on top.
- Spread the top and bottom of bread with softened butter. Grill the sandwiches on panini grill, about 3 minutes per side. The paninis are done when the cheese is completely melted and the bread is toasted and golden.
- **If you don't own a panini grill, you may use a skillet. Heat over medium-low heat and flip after 3-4 minutes.
Notes
- Sourdough bread is used here, but ciabatta, focaccia, or bakery white bread are all suitable alternatives.
- For best flavor, use a fresh basil pesto made from quality ingredients.
- If a panini grill isn’t available, a skillet over medium-low heat can be used, flipping after 3-4 minutes to brown both sides and melt the cheese.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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