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Margherita Panini
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 2
Equipment:
Panini press or grill pan
spatula
cutting board
knife
Cuisine Type: Italian-American
The Margherita Panini is a classic Italian sandwich that showcases the fresh flavors of the Mediterranean. With its crispy, toasted bread, melted mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, this panini is a simple yet delicious option for lunch or a light dinner.
The combination of these fresh ingredients offers a satisfying bite that will transport your taste buds straight to Italy. This recipe isn’t only quick to prepare but also versatile. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
Whether enjoyed warm from the press or at room temperature, the Margherita Panini is perfect for picnics, lunchboxes, or a casual meal at home. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up any leftover fresh basil or tomatoes you may have.
Ingredients:
- 4 slices of ciabatta or focaccia bread
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1 large ripe tomato, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your panini press according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If using a grill pan, heat it over medium heat and lightly grease the surface with olive oil.
- Lay out the slices of ciabatta or focaccia on a cutting board. On two of the slices, layer the fresh mozzarella, followed by the tomato slices. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then add a generous handful of fresh basil leaves on top.
- Place the remaining two slices of bread on top to create two sandwiches. Drizzle olive oil on the outside of each sandwich to help achieve a golden, crispy crust when cooking.
- Carefully place the sandwiches in the preheated panini press or on the grill pan. If using a grill pan, press down with a spatula to flatten the sandwiches slightly. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Once cooked, remove the panini from the press or grill pan and let them cool for a minute before slicing in half. This will help the cheese settle slightly and make them easier to handle.
Extra Tips:
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes inside your panini before grilling. If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use a sprinkle of dried basil or Italian seasoning instead.
Pair your Margherita Panini with a light salad or a bowl of tomato soup for a complete meal.
Enjoy your delicious creation!