Are you ready to transport yourself to the charming streets of Italy with just one bite? This mouthwatering Panini recipe is not just a sandwich – it's a culinary journey that combines the rich, bold flavors of authentic Italian cuisine in mere minutes. Imagine crispy, golden-brown ciabatta bread embracing layers of creamy mozzarella, delicate prosciutto, and fragrant fresh basil, all brought together with a luxurious touch of pesto. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch, an impressive appetizer, or a satisfying meal that screams gourmet, this Panini will become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 4 slices of ciabatta bread
- 4 slices of mozzarella cheese
- 2 slices of prosciutto
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons pesto
- Olive oil for brushing
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by laying out all components on a clean cutting board. Ensure the mozzarella is sliced evenly and the basil leaves are fresh and washed.
- Lightly brush the exterior sides of each ciabatta bread slice with olive oil. This will help create a golden, crispy exterior when grilled.
- On the interior side of one bread slice, spread a thin layer of pesto sauce, ensuring even coverage across the bread surface.
- Layer the ingredients carefully: first place 2 slices of mozzarella cheese, then add the prosciutto slices, and top with fresh basil leaves.
- Close the sandwich by placing the second slice of bread on top, with the oiled side facing outward.
- Preheat a panini press or heavy skillet to medium-high heat. If using a skillet, have a heavy flat object like a cast-iron pan ready to press down.
- Place the prepared sandwich in the panini press or skillet. Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes, pressing down gently to create distinctive grill marks and melt the cheese.
- Remove the panini when the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese has melted completely.
- Let the panini rest for 1-2 minutes, then slice diagonally and serve immediately while warm.
Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for better melting and flavor integration
- Don't overstuff your panini - balanced layers ensure even cooking
- Brush olive oil generously for that perfect golden-brown crispiness
- Let your panini rest briefly after cooking to allow cheese to set
- For extra flavor, try toasting your bread slightly before assembling
- If you don't have a panini press, a heavy skillet with a weighted pan works perfectly
- Choose high-quality, fresh ingredients for the most authentic Italian taste
- Experiment with different pestos (sun-dried tomato, herb) for unique flavor variations
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
