Classic Panini Sandwich

Savor the irresistible allure of the Classic Panini Sandwich, a warm, melty delight that's perfect for lunch or a light dinner. This recipe layers tender, grilled vegetables—red bell peppers, zucchini, and onions—seasoned with garlic, olive oil, and a touch of salt and pepper, atop toasted ciabatta bread. A generous spread of basil pesto, creamy mozzarella slices, and fragrant fresh basil leaves take this sandwich to gourmet heights. Grilled to golden perfection in a panini press or skillet, the result is a crispy, cheesy masterpiece with a satisfying medley of flavors and textures. Easy to make in just 30 minutes, this Italian-inspired panini is your ticket to a delicious and effortless meal.

Nutriscore Rating: 57/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 2 pieces Ciabatta bread
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 2 minced Garlic cloves
• 1 sliced Red bell pepper
• 0.5 sliced Yellow onion
• 1 medium, sliced Zucchini
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 4 slices Mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons Basil pesto
• 6 leaves Fresh basil leaves

Directions

Step 1

Preheat a grill pan or panini press over medium heat.

Step 2

In a medium bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic. Add the sliced red bell pepper, yellow onion, and zucchini, tossing until the vegetables are evenly coated.

Step 3

Place the vegetables on the grill pan and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and have light grill marks. Remove from the heat and set aside.

Step 4

Cut the ciabatta bread pieces in half horizontally. Brush the cut sides with the remaining olive oil.

Step 5

Spread 1 tablespoon of basil pesto on the inside of each ciabatta half.

Step 6

On two of the ciabatta halves, layer the grilled vegetables evenly over the pesto.

Step 7

Place two slices of mozzarella cheese on top of the vegetables, followed by three basil leaves per sandwich.

Step 8

Top each with the remaining ciabatta halves, pressing down gently.

Step 9

If using a grill pan, place the sandwiches on the pan. Use a heavy skillet to press them down evenly. Grill each side for about 3-4 minutes until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted. If using a panini press, place the sandwiches and grill for about 5 minutes until the same result is achieved.

Step 10

Remove from the heat, slice each sandwich in half, and serve warm.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(558.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1150.6

Total Fat 68.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 20.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.6g
Cholesterol 80.0mg	0%
Sodium 4664.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 92.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 7.3g	0%
Total Sugars 19.8g
Protein 45.2g	0%

Vitamin D 17.9IU	0%
Calcium 946.6mg	0%
Iron 6.2mg	0%
Potassium 852.8mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 52.8%

Protein: 15.5%

Carbs: 31.7%