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.
I first served this panini to friends and family and it quickly became a favorite go-to lunch option.
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.
Save This panini always brings everyone together at the table for a warm and satisfying meal.
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
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (bread) Milk (mozzarella butter) Tree nuts (if pesto contains pine nuts)
Save This Caprese Pesto Panini is simple yet elegant a perfect blend of fresh ingredients and gooey cheese.
Recipe FAQ Section
- → What type of bread works best for this panini?
Country-style or sourdough bread slices provide a sturdy base that crisps nicely when grilled, complementing the soft fillings.
- → Can I make pesto from scratch for this dish?
Yes, homemade basil pesto adds freshness and can be tailored to your taste, but store-bought pesto works well too.
- → How do I achieve a crispy crust without a panini press?
Use a skillet with a spatula to press firmly while cooking; this helps the bread toast evenly and melt the cheese inside.
- → Is it possible to substitute mozzarella with another cheese?
Provolone or fontina can be great alternatives that melt well and pair nicely with pesto and tomato.
- → What are good accompaniments to serve alongside?
A side salad or tomato soup complements the savory flavors and balances the richness of the grilled cheese.