Go Back
–+ servings
Italian Caprese Sandwich With Basil Pesto

Delicious Italian Caprese Sandwich With Basil Pesto Perfection

Experience the deliciousness of an Italian Caprese Sandwich with Basil Pesto, featuring juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2 sandwiches
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sandwich
  • 4 slices Rustic Bread Crispy variety like ciabatta, sourdough, or focaccia
  • 8 oz Fresh Mozzarella High-quality cheese for creaminess
  • 2 ea Ripe Tomatoes Heirloom or vine-ripened for juiciness
  • 10 leaves Fresh Basil Leaves Also for garnish, can swap with spinach or arugula
  • 2 tbsp Butter or Olive Oil For spreading on the outside of the bread
  • 1 tbsp Balsamic Glaze To drizzle for extra flavor
For the Basil Pesto
  • 2 cups Fresh Basil Leaves Star ingredient for pesto
  • 0.5 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese For richness, can substitute with nutritional yeast
  • 0.25 cup Pine Nuts Creamy texture, walnuts or sunflower seeds can be used
  • 1 clove Garlic Adjust based on preference
  • 0.5 cup Olive Oil For blending the pesto
  • to taste Salt & Black Pepper Key seasonings

Equipment

  • Food Processor
  • Panini Press or Skillet

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Prep the Pesto: Rinse the basil leaves under cold water. In a food processor, combine the basil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped, then gradually add olive oil, blending until smooth, seasoning with salt and pepper.
  2. Assemble the Sandwich: Spread the basil pesto on one side of each slice of bread. Stack mozzarella and tomatoes on two slices, sprinkle with basil, drizzle balsamic glaze, then top with remaining slices, pesto side down.
  3. Cook the Sandwich: Heat a panini press or skillet over medium heat. Spread butter or drizzle olive oil on the outer sides. Cook the assembled sandwich for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
  4. Serve: Remove from heat and let sit for a minute. Slice diagonally for serving and enjoy with homemade chips or a light salad.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sandwichCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, enjoy immediately. Leftovers should be stored separately in airtight containers. Freezing entire sandwiches is not recommended; however, basil pesto can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!