Pin Recipe 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.
I love making this panini for a quick and delicious meal that feels gourmet yet is so simple to prepare.
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 34 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.
Pin Recipe This recipe always brings my family together for a cozy meal filled with smiles and satisfaction.
Notes
For extra flavor drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving Add arugula for a peppery touch or swap mozzarella for provolone Great with a side salad or tomato soup
Required Tools
Knife Cutting board Skillet or panini press Spatula
Nutritional Information
Calories 420 Total Fat 24 g Carbohydrates 34 g Protein 18 g per serving
Pin Recipe Enjoy this delightful panini warm for full flavor and crisp texture every time.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of bread works best for this panini?
Country-style or sourdough bread is ideal, as it crisps nicely while maintaining a sturdy structure to hold the fillings.
- → Can I use homemade pesto for this dish?
Absolutely! Fresh, homemade basil pesto enhances the vibrant flavors and adds a flavorful, aromatic layer.
- → How can I achieve a crispy and golden crust?
Butter the outer sides of the bread generously and cook on a preheated grill pan or skillet until both sides turn golden brown and crisp.
- → Is there a way to add extra flavor to this panini?
Drizzling balsamic glaze before serving adds a subtle sweetness and tanginess that balances the savory ingredients.
- → Can I substitute mozzarella with other cheeses?
Yes, provolone or fontina are good alternatives that melt well and complement the other flavors.