A vibrant panini featuring mozzarella, basil pesto, ripe tomato, and a golden crisp finish.
# Components:
→ Bread & Dairy
01 - 4 slices country-style or sourdough bread
02 - 4 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
03 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
→ Vegetables & Condiments
04 - 1 large ripe tomato, sliced
05 - 2 tablespoons basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
06 - Handful of fresh basil leaves
→ Seasoning
07 - Pinch of sea salt
08 - Freshly ground black pepper
# Directions:
01 - Spread basil pesto evenly over one side of each bread slice.
02 - Place half of the mozzarella slices on the pesto-coated side of two bread slices.
03 - Top the mozzarella with tomato slices, fresh basil leaves, and sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper.
04 - Add remaining mozzarella slices over the tomato, then cover each with the remaining bread slices, pesto side down.
05 - Spread softened butter on the outer sides of each sandwich.
06 - Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat.
07 - Place sandwiches in panini press or skillet; cook 3 to 4 minutes per side until bread is golden and cheese is melted, pressing down with a spatula if using a skillet.
08 - Remove from heat, let rest for 1 minute, then slice and serve warm.
