Caprese Pesto Panini

Name: Caprese Pesto Paninis
Prep time: 1 h 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 Large slices of Tuscan Schiacciata Flatbread -see notes for variations.; ½ C. Slow oven roasted tomatoes -see notes for variations.; ¼-½ C. Pesto alla Genovese-see notes for variations.; ¼ C. Fresh Basil- cleaned and stems cut down; 4-6 large slices of Fresh Mozzarella; 1 -2 Tsp. Mayo ( we use asian mayo for a lighter taste); ½ Tsp Balsamic Vinegar- for drizzling; salt & pepper -to taste

Caprese Pesto Paninis

Lollygag

Servings

Prep Time

1.5 hours

Cook Time

15 minutes

Cuisine

Italian

Category

Mediterranean Madness Sandwich

This twist on the classic Caprese panini recipe is the perfect savory sandwich for lunchtime or add a salad to the side and make it a main meal for Italian dinner night. With home-made focaccia and pesto mixed with slow oven roasted tomatoes, it's guaranteed to satisfy any guests!

Ingredients

4 Large slices of Tuscan Schiacciata Flatbread -see notes for variations.
½ C. Slow oven roasted tomatoes -see notes for variations.
¼-½ C. Pesto alla Genovese-see notes for variations.
¼ C. Fresh Basil- cleaned and stems cut down
4-6 large slices of Fresh Mozzarella
1 -2 Tsp. Mayo ( we use asian mayo for a lighter taste)
½ Tsp Balsamic Vinegar- for drizzling
salt & pepper -to taste

Directions

Prepare your flatbread, pesto, and tomatoes ahead of time- this can be done the day before.

Panini Assembly

Prep your 4 pieces of flatbread by coating one side with pesto and one side with a little mayo - for each panini.
place a few slices of fresh mozzarella on the pesto side of the bread, sprinkle with some salt & pepper, then layer with fresh basil and the tomatoes.
drizzle a little balsamic vinegar (optional) over the tomatoes and place the other piece of bread, mayo side down on top.
Repeat process for the second panini.
Heat your griddle or panini press on medium high heat.
When the grill press or pan is hot, lightly spray your pan or griddle with olive oil or cooking spray, then place both sandwiches on the press.
Spray or brush the top with a little oil and close the press and push down for a few seconds then let cook for about 5 minutes. (If using stove top grill pan- use a large sturdy metal spatula to press them down.
Check to see if your paninis are getting browned and carefully flip them to grill the other side. Cook for another 5-10 minutes or until golden brown and cheese has become ooey-gooey and melted.
Remove from the grill and place on a cutting board. Cut in half diagonally.
Serve warm with a fresh side salad, chips, fries, or cut into quarters or smaller for a fun appetizer.