Save A vibrant twist on the classic grilled cheese, featuring melted mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, fresh basil pesto, and a crispy golden crust& perfect for a gourmet lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients
- Bread & Dairy: 4 slices country style or sourdough bread, 4 oz (115 g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced, 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- Vegetables & Condiments: 1 large ripe tomato, sliced, 2 tbsp basil pesto (store bought or homemade), Fresh basil leaves, handful
- Seasoning: Pinch of sea salt, Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Spread basil pesto evenly on one side of each bread slice.
- Step 2:
- Layer half the mozzarella slices onto two of the bread slices (on the pesto side).
- Step 3:
- Top with tomato slices, a few fresh basil leaves, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Step 4:
- Add the remaining mozzarella slices over the tomatoes. Cover with the remaining bread slices, pesto side down, to form sandwiches.
- Step 5:
- Butter the outer sides of each sandwich.
- Step 6:
- Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat.
- Step 7:
- Place the sandwiches in the panini press or skillet. Cook for 3&4 minutes per side (press down with a spatula if using a skillet), until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.
- Step 8:
- Remove, let rest for 1 minute, then slice and serve warm.
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Save Recipe FAQ
- → What bread works best for this panini?
Country-style or sourdough bread is ideal for its sturdy texture and ability to crisp nicely while grilling.
- → Can I make the basil pesto from scratch?
Absolutely. Homemade basil pesto with fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, parmesan, and olive oil enhances the panini’s flavor deeply.
- → How do I prevent the panini from getting soggy?
Spreading pesto on the inside and buttering the outer sides of the bread before grilling helps keep the crust crisp and golden.
- → What can I use instead of mozzarella?
Provolone or fontina can be substituted for a different but equally melty and flavorful experience.
- → Is there a way to add extra flavor?
Drizzling balsamic glaze or adding peppery arugula leaves inside the sandwich can give an additional flavor boost.