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–+ servings
Mediterranean Panini – vegetarian recipe
Stav Kogan

Mediterranean Panini

This Mediterranean Panini is a quick trip to the Mediterranean, packed with vibrant flavors. A perfectly toasted, crunchy panini gives way to a warm, gooey center of melted mozzarella, savory sun-dried tomato tapenade, and fresh spinach.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 16 minutes
Servings: 2 serving
Calories: 345

Ingredients
  

  • 4 slices rustic whole grain bread
  • 4 Tbsp (60 ml) Sun-Dried Tomato Olive Tapenade
  • 4 oz (113 g) fresh mozzarella, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium tomato, sliced
  • 1 cup (240 ml) baby spinach
  • Lightly brush the outside of the bread with olive oil before grilling for an extra crispy, golden-brown crust.
  • Use a sturdy bread like sourdough or ciabatta that can hold up to the fillings and pressing without becoming flat.

Method
 

  1. Preheat your panini press or heat a grill pan over medium-low heat.
  2. Spread 1 Tbsp / 15 ml of tapenade on each of the four slices of bread.
  3. Place the mozzarella slices over the tapenade on all slices.
  4. On two of the bread slices, which will be the bottom halves, layer the tomato slices and top with the baby spinach.
  5. Close the sandwiches with the remaining mozzarella-topped bread slices.
  6. If using a panini press, place the sandwiches inside, close the lid, and cook until the inside is hot and the cheese is completely melted, about 4-6 minutes.
  7. If using a grill pan, place the sandwiches in the pan and set a heavy skillet on top to gently press them down.
  8. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the bread has grill marks.
  9. Flip, place the skillet back on top, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is fully melted.
  10. Serve immediately.
  11. Pat the fresh mozzarella and tomato slices with a paper towel to remove excess moisture and prevent a soggy sandwich.
  12. Add a sprinkle of dried oregano or a few fresh basil leaves for an extra layer of Italian-inspired flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 345kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 24gFat: 131g

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