Simple Caprese Panini (with Tomato, Basil and Mozzarella)
This Simple Caprese Panini (with Tomato, Basil and Mozzarella) bursts with garden fresh flavor and it's SO super easy to put together-a seasonal favorite!
2slicesciabatta breadI usually cut mine 3-4 inches wide
2tablespoonsspreadable butter
1largetomatoripened and sliced into 4-6 thin slices
4slicesfresh mozzarellaabout 2-3 inches in diameter, cut about ¼ inch thick
8leavesfresh basil
2tablespoonsBalsamic vinegaroptional
Instructions
Preheat panini maker. If you do not have a panini maker, you can make this in a non-stick skillet pan.
Spread butter on outside of bread--top and bottoms.
Place buttered sides of bread together to build sandwich.
Layer ingredients on bread in this order: tomato, mozzarella slices and fresh basil.
Place sandwich in pan, bottom side down. Place other slice of bread on top of stacked ingredients.
Press panini in panini maker. If you are making it in a skillet, press it down with the back of a flat spatula. Grill 3-4 minutes per side or until cheese is slightly melted and bread is golden and crispy.
Serve with balsamic vinegar on the side if desired.
Notes
MAKE AHEAD TIP:This sandwich is so quick and easy, there's not much to make ahead but if you want to save a little time, slice your bread and mozzarella. Store bread slices in airtight container at room temperature and mozzarella slices in airtight container in refrigerator until ready to prepare.MONEY SAVING TIP:Growing your own basil and tomatoes can save you money! Tomatoes are one of the easiest vegetables to grow in the summer time--you can even have a plant in a container! Basil can grow year round in a pot outside or indoors next to a sunny window. Just pull of what you need when you need it!