Ingredients
- 2 slices of your favorite bread (Italian, sourdough, ciabatta, etc.)
- 2 tablespoons of your favorite spread (pesto, mayonnaise, aioli, hummus, etc.)
- 1/4 cup sliced cheese (mozzarella, provolone, cheddar, etc.)
- 1/4 cup sliced fillings (ham, turkey, roasted vegetables, sun-dried tomatoes, etc.)
- Optional: fresh herbs (basil, arugula, spinach, etc.)
Directions
- Preheat your panini press or grill pan.
- Spread your chosen spread on one side of each slice of bread.
- Layer the cheese and fillings on one of the bread slices.
- Top with the other bread slice, spread-side down.
- Place the sandwich in the preheated panini press or grill pan.
- Press down gently and cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Remove the panini from the press or pan and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Tips and Variations:
Get creative with your fillings: Try different combinations of meats, cheeses, vegetables, and spreads to create your own unique panini.
- Use quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the panini will taste.
- Don’t overfill the sandwich: Too many fillings will make the panini difficult to press and cook evenly.
- Adjust cooking time as needed: The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the bread and the fillings.
- Serve with your favorite sides: Paninis are great with a side of soup, salad, or fries.
Here are some popular panini combinations to get you started:
- Classic Italian: Prosciutto, mozzarella, pesto, and tomato
- Turkey and Cheddar: Turkey, cheddar cheese, and apple slices
- Vegetarian: Roasted vegetables, goat cheese, and balsamic glaze
- Caprese: Fresh mozzarella, tomato slices, basil, and balsamic vinaigrette
