15 Italian Panini Sandwich Recipe Ignite Your Passion For Cooking!

Ingredients

For the sandwich:

• 4 slices of crusty bread
• 8 slices of prosciutto
• 4 slices of mozzarella cheese
• 8-10 fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the pesto:

• 2 cups of fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup of pine nuts
• 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 clove of garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Before we dive into the recipe, let's talk about the star ingredient of this sandwich - the pesto. Pesto is a versatile Italian sauce that adds a burst of flavor to any dish. While you can buy pre-made pesto, nothing beats the fresh flavor of homemade pesto. It's also super easy to make, so don't be intimidated by the thought of making it from scratch.

Instructions

Step 1: Make the pesto

1. In a food processor, add the basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Pulse until everything is finely chopped.
3. While the food processor is still running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto has reached a smooth consistency.

Step 2: Assemble the sandwich

1. Preheat a panini press or a grill pan.
2. Brush olive oil on one side of each slice of bread.
3. On the other side, spread a generous amount of pesto.
4. Layer the prosciutto, mozzarella, and basil leaves on top of the pesto.
5. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and season with salt and pepper.
6. Place the other slice of bread on top, pesto side down.
7. Brush the top with olive oil.

Step 3: Press the sandwich

1. Place the sandwich on the panini press or grill pan, oiled side down.
2. Brush the top with more olive oil.
3. Close the panini press or cover the sandwich with a lid.
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and golden brown, and the cheese is melted.

And there you have it - a delicious Italian panini sandwich that is bursting with flavors. Serve it with a side of mixed greens or a bowl of soup for a complete meal. You can also switch up the ingredients and use different meats, cheeses, and veggies to create your own unique panini. The possibilities are endless!

So, the next time you're craving a hearty and flavorful sandwich, give this Italian panini recipe a try. We guarantee it will become a favorite in your household. Buon appetito!