Low Sodium Pesto Panini

Savor the bold, herbaceous flavors of this Low Sodium Pesto Panini, a guilt-free twist on a classic favorite! This recipe features a vibrant, homemade pesto made with fresh basil, unsalted pine nuts, and a hint of lemon juice, perfectly balanced to pack big flavor without the added salt. Sandwiched between slices of whole-grain ciabatta bread, layers of creamy fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and crisp baby spinach come together in a panini that’s grilled to golden perfection. Ready in just 30 minutes, this quick and easy recipe is perfect for a wholesome lunch or light dinner, delivering all the satisfaction of a traditional panini while keeping sodium levels in check. Ideal for health-conscious foodies, this low-sodium delight is your next go-to for a flavorful, nutrient-packed meal.

Nutriscore Rating: 64/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 2 cups Fresh basil leaves
• 0.25 cup Unsalted pine nuts
• 2 large Garlic cloves
• 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 0.5 cup Extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
• 0.25 teaspoon Cracked black pepper
• 4 slices Whole grain ciabatta bread
• 4 ounces Fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 1 medium Tomato, sliced
• 1 cup Baby spinach
• 1 tablespoon Extra virgin olive oil for brushing

Directions

Step 1

To make the low sodium pesto, combine fresh basil leaves, unsalted pine nuts, garlic cloves, Parmesan cheese, extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and cracked black pepper in a food processor.

Step 2

Pulse the ingredients until you achieve a smooth consistency. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure even blending. Set aside.

Step 3

Preheat a panini press or a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 4

Assemble the paninis by spreading a generous amount of the homemade pesto on one side of each slice of ciabatta bread.

Step 5

Layer two slices of mozzarella cheese, followed by slices of tomato and a handful of baby spinach on two of the slices.

Step 6

Complete each sandwich with another slice of ciabatta bread, pesto side down.

Step 7

Lightly brush the outside of each sandwich with extra virgin olive oil.

Step 8

Place each sandwich onto the preheated panini press or skillet. If using a skillet, use a spatula to press down on the sandwiches.

Step 9

Grill the paninis for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the bread is crisp and golden, and the cheese has melted.

Step 10

Remove the paninis from the heat and let them cool for a minute before slicing and serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(735.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2315.2

Total Fat 183.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 40.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g
Cholesterol 109.1mg	0%
Sodium 2084.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 132.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 17.1g	0%
Total Sugars 12.6g
Protein 60.2g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 996.6mg	0%
Iron 11.4mg	0%
Potassium 979.9mg	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: 68.2%

Protein: 9.9%

Carbs: 21.8%