Ingredients
Panini
- 1 ciabatta roll (or 2 slices sourdough bread)
- 2 slices fresh mozzarella
- 2-3 tomato slices
- Handful of fresh basil leaves
Condiments & Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- Kosher salt (to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Slice the ciabatta roll in half. Brush the outside of the bottom half with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Place it on a preheated panini press or grill pan to start toasting.
- Layer the Ingredients: On the bottom half of the bread, layer the fresh mozzarella slices, tomato slices, and fresh basil leaves. Drizzle with 1 teaspoon of balsamic vinegar, then season lightly with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Top and Grill: Brush the top half of the bread with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Place it over the layered sandwich. Close the panini press or if using a grill pan, place a heavy pan on top and press down for 20 seconds to help the sandwich flatten and meld. Continue grilling, flipping once if necessary, until the bread is golden brown and the mozzarella begins to soften around the edges without fully melting.
Notes
- Use fresh, high-quality mozzarella for the best flavor and melt.
- If you don’t have a panini press, a grill pan with a weighted pan on top works well.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to taste but keep it light to balance the fresh ingredients.
- Serve immediately while the panini is warm and the mozzarella is slightly melted.
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
