Elevate your sandwich game with this No-Press Panini featuring fresh mozzarella, roasted red pepper, and fragrant basil, all nestled between golden, crispy slices of ciabatta bread. This quick and easy recipe doesn't require a panini pressβjust a skillet and a little creativity! The creamy mozzarella melts perfectly into the smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers, while fresh basil adds a classic touch of herbaceous flavor. A hint of garlic, brushed onto the bread, enhances every bite, and a drizzle of olive oil ensures a perfectly crisp crust. Ready in just 20 minutes, this Italian-inspired panini is a delicious option for lunch or a light dinner. Enjoy this gourmet-level sandwich thatβs simple to prepare and packed with flavor!
Slice the ciabatta bread or sandwich rolls in half horizontally to create a top and bottom piece.
Optional: Rub the cut sides of the bread with the cut side of a garlic clove to add extra flavor.
Slice the fresh mozzarella cheese into thin rounds.
Cut the roasted red pepper into thin strips and pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Layer the bottom half of each piece of bread with the mozzarella slices, followed by the roasted red pepper strips, and then the fresh basil leaves. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and black pepper over the filling.
Place the top piece of bread on each sandwich. Press gently to hold everything in place.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and brush the outer sides of the bread with olive oil.
Place the sandwiches in the skillet. Use a heavy skillet, pot, or another flat object to press down on the sandwiches gently to mimic a panini press. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown.
Flip the sandwiches over carefully, press them down again, and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the second side is golden brown and the cheese has melted.
Remove from the skillet, let rest for 1-2 minutes, then slice each panini in half and serve immediately.
Calories |
779 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 32.5 g | 42% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.5 g | 28% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1994 mg | 87% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 104.9 g | 38% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.7 g | 24% | |
| Total Sugars | 10.9 g | ||
| Protein | 18.2 g | 36% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 66 mg | 5% | |
| Iron | 5.3 mg | 29% | |
| Potassium | 510 mg | 11% | |
*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.