Imagine biting into a sandwich that’s like a warm hug from Italy itself—crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, with flavors that make you want to belt out opera in your kitchen. I stumbled upon these panini recipes after a trip to a bustling Italian market, full of laughter and the aroma of fresh basil. If you’ve ever wanted a taste of Italy without leaving your home, these recipes are your golden ticket—just don’t blame me if you can’t stop at one!
Steps
- Preheat your panini press to medium-high heat to ensure it’s ready for grilling.
- Spread a layer of pesto on one slice of bread, then place mozzarella on top, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Add clumps of prosciutto and fresh basil onto the mozzarella, and drizzle olive oil on the inside of the top bread slice.
- Close the sandwich and coat the outside with olive oil to enhance crispiness.
- Place the sandwich on the panini press and cook for about 5 minutes until the bread is golden and the cheese melts.
- Once cooked, remove the sandwich from the press and let it rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
Ingredients
- Medium-thick slices of Panini bread (such as sourdough, French, or Italian bread)
- Fresh basil pesto
- Fresh mozzarella cheese
- Prosciutto
- Fresh basil leaves
- Olive oil
- Pinch of salt
- Fresh cracked pepper
- Red onion
- Red peppers
- Caramelized onions
- Banana peppers
- Tomato slices
- Pickled jalapenos
- Pink pickled onions
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of bread for the panini?
- Yes, you can choose any bread you prefer for your panini. While the recipe suggests sourdough, French, or Italian bread, feel free to use any bread that can be sliced and grilled to your liking.
- What can I use as a substitute for prosciutto?
- Prosciutto is an Italian delicacy, but you can substitute it with other deli meats like Genoa salami, honey ham, roast beef, or even shredded rotisserie chicken if you prefer.
- How can I make a panini without a panini press?
- You can make a panini without a press by using a heavy skillet. Cook it like a grilled cheese, and if you want it pressed, place parchment paper over the sandwich and top it with a baking sheet and another heavy pan to press it while cooking.
- What type of cheese can I use instead of mozzarella?
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. This recipe uses mozzarella, but you could try Swiss, provolone, cheddar, or even crumbly cheeses like blue cheese or gorgonzola for a different taste experience.
- How can I store leftover panini?
- Any leftover panini can be stored in an airtight container or a ziplock bag in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Tips
- Preheat Your Equipment: Ensure your panini press or grill pan is thoroughly preheated before assembling the sandwich. This ensures that the bread becomes crispy and the cheese melts evenly.
- Customize Your Ingredients: Don’t hesitate to switch up the ingredients based on your preferences. Substitute the mozzarella with your favorite meltable cheese, or try different spreads like aioli or mustard for varied flavors.
- Press Without a Panini Maker: If you lack a panini press, use a heavy skillet to mimic the pressing effect. Place a sheet of parchment paper over the sandwich, then use a baking sheet with a heavy pan on top to press it down while cooking.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the panini to rest for a few minutes before cutting and serving. This helps the cheese set slightly, enhancing the flavor and keeping the sandwich intact.
Equipment
- Panini Press – A dedicated appliance specifically for making paninis.
- Panini Grill Pan – An alternative to a panini press, allows you to grill the sandwich on a stovetop.
- Heavy Skillet – If not using a panini press, a heavy skillet can be used to press the sandwich. You may already have this, but if not, it could be a useful addition.
