Panini anyone? How about one made with the deliciousness of Caprese salad? Something amazing happens when you put tomato, basil, and fresh mozzarella together. These simple ingredients when brought together, can bring our tastebuds on a wonderful journey to Italy. Have you ever been to Italy? I haven’t yet, but when I do, you can bet I will be ordering Insalata Caprese.
This crusty panini sandwich made with multigrain panini loaf makes a delicious vegetarian-friendly meal. The perfect garnish for this panini, a balsamic reduction and a drizzle of olive oil.
Looking for a different appetizer? Try slicing it in one-inch strips and serve with a balsamic and olive oil dip. Yum!
A big thank you from me to you Elise (my niece) for the great panini press….this one is for you!!
Makes 4 servings ( two large paninis halved)
Panini Ingredients :
- 4 panini loaf slices or your favorite sliced bread will do ( I used multigrain panini loaf slices)
- 1 large tomato
- 4-6 ounces of sliced fresh mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh chopped basil
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
Making a Balsamic Reduction:
- On medium heat, put vinegar and honey in a small saucepan and bring to a simmer
- Simmer until the liquid is reduced to 1/3 cup ( do not overheat as the sugar from the honey can burn)
- Remove from heat and let cool
Assembling a Masterpiece:
- start by slicing tomato, cheese, and chop basil
- preheat panini grill to high heat
- take 2 slices of bread and layer mozzarella, tomato, and cover with basil and top both sandwiches with another slice of bread
- brush a light coating of olive oil on both sides of the panini
- place sandwiches on panini grill and close lid
- grill for 3 minutes or until the sandwich is crisp and golden
After grilling, drizzle the balsamic reduction and 1 tsp of olive oil onto plate and top with the panini. Enjoy!
Do you love Italian food? Try some some of these delicious recipes!
[…] Elise’s Savory Caprese Panini […]
[…] Elise’s Savory Caprese Panini […]