Gourmet Italian Panini with Mozzarella and Pesto
Indulge in the rich, savory flavors of this Gourmet Italian Panini featuring luscious mozzarella, zesty pesto, and sweet grilled bell peppers. This elevated grilled cheese sandwich takes your lunch or snack game to the next level, perfect for a quick meal or a leisurely weekend treat. The combination of creamy mozzarella and fresh Parmesan adds a delightful creaminess, while the basil-infused pesto and roasted peppers provide a burst of flavor in every bite. Cooked to perfection in a panini press or skillet, this sandwich is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
4
Servings
300
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Panini bread
4 (sliced in half)
Mozzarella cheese
6.5 ounces (sliced)
Fresh Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup (grated)
Pesto sauce
1/4 cup (none)
Grilled bell peppers
2 (grilled and sliced (jarred or homemade))
Instructions
1
Begin by slicing the panini bread in half horizontally. Spread a generous layer of pesto sauce on the cut side of each half to infuse rich flavor.
2
On the bottom halves of the bread, evenly distribute the sliced mozzarella cheese, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese and the grilled bell peppers.
3
Top with the remaining halves of bread, pesto side down, to form complete sandwiches.
4
Heat a skillet over medium-low heat, or preheat your panini press according to the manufacturer's instructions.
5
If using a skillet, carefully place the sandwiches in the skillet and apply gentle pressure with a spatula or a heavy skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is beautifully melted.
6
If using a panini press, close the lid and grill for approximately 3-5 minutes, or until the sandwiches are golden and the cheese has melted.
7
Once done, remove the sandwiches from heat, let them cool slightly, then slice in half and serve immediately for the best taste.
Nutrition Information
17.5g
Fat
20g
Carbs
10g
Protein
1g
Fiber
1.5g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this recipe?
The recipe is for a Gourmet Italian Panini with Mozzarella and Pesto.
How many servings does this panini recipe provide?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
What are the primary ingredients for the Gourmet Italian Panini?
The main ingredients include panini bread, mozzarella cheese, fresh Parmesan cheese, pesto sauce, and grilled bell peppers.
How many calories are in one serving of this panini?
There are 300 calories per serving.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is tagged as vegetarian.
What amount of mozzarella cheese is required?
You will need 6.5 ounces of sliced mozzarella cheese.
How much pesto sauce should be used?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of pesto sauce.
How much Parmesan cheese is needed?
The recipe requires 1/4 cup of grated fresh Parmesan cheese.
What kind of bread is recommended?
The recipe recommends using 4 pieces of panini bread, sliced in half.
How many grilled bell peppers are used?
The recipe uses 2 grilled bell peppers, which can be jarred or homemade.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving contains 10g of protein.
How much fat is in one serving?
One serving contains 17.5g of fat.
What is the carbohydrate count for this panini?
There are 20g of carbohydrates per serving.
How much sugar does the recipe contain?
The recipe contains 1.5g of sugar per serving.
How much fiber is in each serving?
There is 1g of fiber per serving.
What is the first step in preparing the panini?
Begin by slicing the panini bread in half horizontally and spreading a layer of pesto sauce on each half.
How do I assemble the sandwich?
Place mozzarella, Parmesan, and grilled bell peppers on the bottom bread halves, then top with the remaining bread, pesto side down.
How long do I cook the panini in a skillet?
Cook for about 5 minutes on each side over medium-low heat until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
How long do I cook the panini in a panini press?
Grill in a panini press for approximately 3-5 minutes until golden and the cheese has melted.
Should I apply pressure when using a skillet?
Yes, apply gentle pressure with a spatula or a heavy skillet while cooking.
What heat setting should be used for the skillet?
A medium-low heat setting is recommended for the skillet.
How should the Parmesan cheese be prepared?
The Parmesan cheese should be grated.
How should the mozzarella cheese be prepared?
The mozzarella cheese should be sliced.
When should I slice the panini?
Remove from heat, let it cool slightly, then slice in half to serve.
What flavor profile does the pesto provide?
The basil-infused pesto provides a burst of flavor in every bite.
Can I use homemade grilled bell peppers?
Yes, you can use either jarred or homemade grilled bell peppers.
Is this recipe considered comfort food?
Yes, it is tagged as comfort food.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick lunch?
Yes, it is described as perfect for a quick meal or a leisurely weekend treat.
What is the total number of ingredients?
There are 5 main ingredients in this recipe.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include italian, panini, grilled cheese, lunch, snack, mozzarella, pesto, vegetarian, and comfort food.