Elevate your sandwich game with this irresistible Nut-Free Pesto Sandwich, perfect for those seeking a flavor-packed yet nut-free alternative to traditional pesto recipes. Featuring a vibrant homemade pesto made with fresh basil, zesty lemon juice, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and extra-virgin olive oil, this recipe delivers all the classic pesto flavors without the addition of nuts. Layered between golden, buttery grilled sourdough slices, the sandwich is filled with creamy fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and peppery arugula, creating a medley of textures and tastes. Ready in just 25 minutes, this easy-to-make nut-free pesto sandwich is a delightful option for lunch, dinner, or an indulgent snack. Perfect for families, vegetarians, and anyone looking for allergen-friendly recipes, this dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or a bowl of soup.
In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, and garlic cloves. Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped.
Add the lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to the basil mixture. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil until the pesto reaches a smooth consistency. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Preheat a grill pan or a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
Spread a thin layer of the prepared nut-free pesto on one side of each sourdough bread slice.
Layer the fresh mozzarella slices and tomato slices on top of the pesto-spread side of two bread slices. Add a handful of arugula leaves on top of the tomatoes.
Top each sandwich with another slice of sourdough bread, pesto side down.
Spread butter on the outside of each sandwich to ensure a nice crispy texture when grilled.
Place the sandwiches on the preheated grill pan or skillet. Press down gently with a spatula to help the cheese melt and everything to stick together.
Grill each side for about 4-5 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the cheese is melted.
Remove sandwiches from the pan, slice them in half, and serve warm.
Calories |
2729 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 218.1 g | 280% | |
| Saturated Fat | 78.1 g | 390% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 324 mg | 108% | |
| Sodium | 6013 mg | 261% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 98.7 g | 36% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 9.0 g | 32% | |
| Total Sugars | 19.1 g | ||
| Protein | 99.2 g | 198% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 2227 mg | 171% | |
| Iron | 7.8 mg | 43% | |
| Potassium | 1241 mg | 26% | |
*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.