Tomato Mozzarella Panini
Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomato, basil, and pesto pressed in ciabatta or sourdough until crisp outside and melty inside.
Tomato Mozzarella Panini is a fresh and easy lunch that tastes like a café sandwich at home. The bread and filling are cooked or toasted separately, then brought together while the textures are at their best.
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Ingredients
- 4 slices sourdough or ciabatta bread
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- 6 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- 1 tablespoon pesto or olive oil
- Butter or olive oil for grilling
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Substitutions
- Use provolone or another well-melting cheese in place of fresh mozzarella.
- Use dairy-free butter or olive oil on the outside of the bread.
- Replace fresh basil with a thin layer of pesto or baby spinach; dried basil will not provide the same texture.
Instructions
Step 1: Spread pesto or olive oil on the bread
Spread pesto or olive oil on the bread.

Step 2: Layer tomato, mozzarella, and basil between the slices
Layer tomato, mozzarella, and basil between the slices.

Step 3: Season with salt and black pepper
Season with salt and black pepper.
Step 4: Grill in a panini press or skillet until crisp and golden
Grill in a panini press or skillet until crisp and golden.

Step 5: Slice and serve warm
Slice and serve warm.

How to Store Leftovers
Refrigerate the filling from Tomato Mozzarella Panini within 2 hours and keep bread, tortillas, lettuce, and crisp toppings separate. Assemble only the portions you plan to eat within 3 to 4 days.
How to Reheat
Warm the filling and bread for Tomato Mozzarella Panini separately when possible, then add cold vegetables and sauce.
What to Serve With It
- Tomato soup
- A green salad
- Pickles
- Fresh fruit
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Assembling too early.
- For Tomato Mozzarella Panini, skipping bread toasting when the filling is juicy.
- Overfilling the sandwich.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 410 |
| Protein | 19g |
| Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Sugar | 7g |
Nutrition is an estimate and can vary with brands, portion size, and substitutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the clearest doneness cue for Tomato Mozzarella Panini?
Grill in a panini press or skillet until crisp and golden.
Can Tomato Mozzarella Panini be prepared ahead?
Cook the filling ahead, refrigerate it promptly, and assemble Tomato Mozzarella Panini close to serving.
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