Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, crispy panini that bursts with the rich flavors of roasted red peppers and creamy goat cheese. This Red Pepper Goat Cheese Panini is not just a sandwich; it’s a culinary experience that will transport your taste buds straight to Italy! Perfect for a quick lunch or a delightful dinner, this recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those busy weekdays or leisurely weekends. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this gourmet delight that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 slices of ciabatta bread
- 4 oz goat cheese
- 1 red bell pepper, roasted and sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Roast the red bell pepper if you haven't already. You can do this by placing the whole pepper under a broiler or on a grill, turning occasionally until the skin is charred and blistered. Once roasted, place the pepper in a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap to steam for about 10 minutes. This will make it easier to peel. After steaming, peel off the charred skin, remove the seeds, and slice the pepper into strips.
- While the red pepper is steaming, preheat a skillet or panini press over medium heat. If you are using a skillet, you may want to add a little olive oil to the pan to prevent sticking.
- Take the two slices of ciabatta bread and lay them flat on a clean surface. Spread an even layer of goat cheese on one side of each slice. Ensure that the goat cheese is spread all the way to the edges for maximum flavor in every bite.
- On top of the goat cheese on one slice, layer the roasted red pepper strips. Season lightly with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, you can add additional ingredients such as fresh basil or arugula for extra flavor and texture.
- Place the other slice of ciabatta on top of the layered red pepper, goat cheese side down, creating a sandwich.
- Drizzle the outside of the sandwich with olive oil, ensuring that both sides are coated lightly. This will help achieve a golden, crispy crust when cooking.
- If using a panini press, place the sandwich in the press and close it. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and golden brown and the goat cheese is melted.
- If using a skillet, place the sandwich in the preheated pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side until golden brown, then carefully flip the sandwich using a spatula. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side, pressing down gently with the spatula to ensure even cooking.
- Once the panini is cooked to your liking, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a minute. This will help the cheese set slightly, making it easier to cut.
- Slice the panini in half diagonally and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Red Pepper Goat Cheese Panini!
Tips
- Roasting the Peppers: For the best flavor, roast your red bell peppers until the skin is charred. This adds a smoky depth that elevates the entire panini. If you're short on time, you can also use jarred roasted red peppers as a convenient alternative.
- Choosing the Right Bread: Ciabatta is the perfect choice for this panini due to its airy texture and crusty exterior. However, feel free to experiment with other types of bread like sourdough or focaccia for a unique twist.
- Cheese Spread: Make sure to spread the goat cheese evenly to the edges of the bread. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and prevents the filling from spilling out during cooking.
- Extra Ingredients: Consider adding fresh herbs like basil or arugula for an added burst of freshness. These ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also add a beautiful pop of color to your panini.
- Cooking Technique: If you don't have a panini press, a skillet works just as well! Just remember to press down gently with a spatula to achieve that perfect golden crust.
- Resting Time: Allow the panini to rest for a minute after cooking. This helps the cheese set slightly, making it easier to slice and enjoy without everything oozing out.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your panini with a light salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal. A simple side of mixed greens drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 40mg
