Elevate your lunch game with this indulgent yet wholesome Eggplant Aubergine Panini for Two! Perfectly grilled eggplant slices seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper are layered with creamy mozzarella, vibrant baby spinach, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and a fragrant smear of basil pesto, all tucked between toasted ciabatta rolls. This quick and satisfying recipe, ready in just 25 minutes, features an irresistible combination of smoky, cheesy, and herby flavors, making it ideal for a cozy lunch or an easy weeknight dinner. Whether youβre a vegetarian or just looking for a delightful twist on classic panini, this recipe delivers gourmet quality with minimal effort.
Slice the eggplant into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil, and season with salt and black pepper.
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Grill the eggplant slices for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and grill marks appear. Set aside.
Slice the ciabatta rolls in half horizontally and spread 1 tablespoon of basil pesto on the inside of each roll half.
Layer the bottom halves of the ciabatta rolls with grilled eggplant slices, mozzarella cheese, baby spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes.
Place the top halves of the ciabatta rolls on the layered ingredients to form sandwiches.
Heat a panini press or grill pan. If using a grill pan, place a heavy skillet on top of the sandwiches to press them down.
Cook the panini for 3-5 minutes, or until the bread is golden and crisp and the cheese is melted.
Remove from the heat, slice the panini in half, and serve immediately.
Calories |
1176 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 69.3 g | 89% | |
| Saturated Fat | 20.2 g | 101% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 81 mg | 27% | |
| Sodium | 2854 mg | 124% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 98.0 g | 36% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 16.0 g | 57% | |
| Total Sugars | 20.5 g | ||
| Protein | 48.4 g | 97% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.5 mcg | 2% | |
| Calcium | 971 mg | 75% | |
| Iron | 8.2 mg | 46% | |
| Potassium | 1554 mg | 33% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.