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This Caprese Sandwich recipe is a quick and delicious option for lunch, featuring fresh tomato, mozzarella, and basil pesto layered between slices of sourdough bread. With a golden-brown finish, it’s a simple yet satisfying choice for a tasty meal.
Pesto Caprese Sandwich is a delicious meal that is full of fresh flavors. Its simplicity makes it a perfect pair with a side of Italian Chopped Salad or a refreshing Cucumber and Tomato Salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a bowl of Roasted Tomato Soup or a Zesty Quinoa Salad.
It is so easy to make when you are in need of a quick lunch and a simple sandwich that’s packed with flavor. All you need is some bread, pesto, tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella.
Why you will love this recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Tomato Caprese Sandwich is a breeze to make, perfect for a speedy lunch without compromising on flavor.
- Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and basil pesto creates a burst of freshness in every bite.
- Versatile: Use your favorite bread and customize it to your liking—make it with sourdough, whole grain, or any bread that suits your taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a picnic option, or a light dinner, this Caprese Sandwich is a versatile choice for various occasions.
- Balanced Taste: The sandwich achieves a delightful balance with the savory mozzarella, tangy tomatoes, and the aromatic kick of basil pesto.
Ingredients Needed
With just a few simple ingredients, this vegetarian tomato caprese sandwich is a burst of freshness in every bite.
- Sourdough Bread: The base of the sandwich, providing a sturdy and flavorful foundation. You can also use whole grain bread, ciabatta, or baguette for a different texture.
- Vine-Ripe Tomato: Adds juicy sweetness and a burst of freshness. I love Roma or Campari tomatoes for this sandwich.
- Olive Oil: Creates a rich, golden-brown crust when toasted and adds a savory element. You can also use butter if you prefer.
- Basil Pesto: Store-bought or homemade pesto infuses the sandwich with a fragrant basil flavor, enhancing the overall taste. Alternative: Sun-dried tomato pesto for a different flavor profile.
- Fresh Mozzarella: Provides a creamy and mild contrast to the tomatoes.
- Salt and Pepper: Enhances the flavors of the tomatoes and mozzarella, adding a savory balance.
How To make this caprese sandwich Recipe
Prepare the Bread: Place the chosen bread on a plate or cutting board, then generously spread olive oil or butter on one side of each slice.
Heat the Skillet: Warm a skillet over medium heat and lay two slices of bread, oil/butter side down. While cooking, spread basil pesto on the other side of each slice.
Layer the Goodness: Arrange slices of ripe tomato and fresh mozzarella on each piece of bread, and sprinkle with salt and pepper for a perfect flavor balance.
Complete the Sandwich: Reduce heat to low and place the remaining slices of bread on top, oil side up. Flip the sandwich and cook until it achieves a golden-brown hue.
Serve with Style: Once done, remove from heat, cut the sandwich in half, and serve your delicious Tomato Caprese Sandwich. Enjoy it as is or pair it with your favorite sides for a satisfying meal.
Expert Tips
- When toasting the sandwich, start with medium heat to avoid burning the bread. Lower the heat to low when flipping to ensure the ingredients inside have time to melt and meld without overcooking the exterior.
- If you have a panini press or a heavy skillet, gently press down on the sandwich as it cooks. This helps to create an even crust and ensures all the ingredients meld together.
- Take the tomatoes and mozzarella out of the fridge a bit before assembling the sandwich. This allows them to come to room temperature, enhancing their flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fresh mozzarella adds a creamy texture, but you can try alternatives like burrata or even regular mozzarella if that’s what you have on hand.
Ensure that your tomato slices are not overly juicy, and consider patting them dry with a paper towel before assembling the sandwich.
If making your own pesto, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze it in ice cube trays and transfer the cubes to a freezer bag once solid.
Serving Suggestions
This sandwich is perfect for lunch when served with sides that are equally light and fresh. Here are some of our favorites:
- Greek Orzo Pasta Salad
- Green Beans and Tomato Salad
- Tomato Mozzarella Salad
- Healthy Asparagus Soup
- Italian Chopped Salad
- Cucumber and Tomato Salad
- Roasted Tomato Soup
- Zesty Quinoa Salad
Storage Recommendations
This caprese sandwich is best when it’s assembled immediately before eating, so I don’t recommend refrigerating or freezing the sandwich. However, you can store the individual elements to make assembling your sandwich a breeze.
- Pesto: Store homemade or store-bought pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can typically last up to one week.
- Fresh Mozzarella: Keep fresh mozzarella in its original packaging or transfer it to an airtight container. Use it within a few days for the best texture and flavor.
- Fresh Basil: Store fresh basil in the refrigerator, preferably in a jar or vase with water like a bouquet. Alternatively, wrap it in a damp paper towel and place it in a plastic bag. It should last up to a week.
More Sandwich Recipes
- Cucumber Sandwich
- Avocado Egg Salad Sandwich
- Chicken Avocado Ranch Burrito Sandwich
- Grilled Chicken Gyro Sandwich
- Buffalo Grilled Chicken Wrap
- Southwest Chicken Wrap
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Pesto Caprese Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 slices sourdough bread, or any sandwich bread of your choice
- 1 vine-ripe tomato, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, or butter
- 1/4 cup basil pesto, make your own or store-bought
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place the bread over a plate or cutting board, spread butter, or brush olive oil over the top of each bread.
- On a heated skillet over medium heat, add the two pieces of bread, oil/butter side down.
- Spread 2 tablespoons of pesto on top of each piece of bread.
- Add the sliced tomatoes and mozzarella cheese to each piece of bread and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Reduce heat to low and top with the other bread piece to complete the sandwich, with olive oil side up.
- Flip the sandwich and let it cook for another minute until golden brown.
- Remove from heat, cut in half, and serve.
Notes
- Begin toasting on medium heat to avoid burning; reduce to low when flipping to allow ingredients to meld without overcooking the exterior.
- Use a panini press or heavy skillet to gently press the sandwich for an even crust and cohesive melding of ingredients.
- Take tomatoes and mozzarella out of the fridge before assembling for easier melting.
- This sandwich is best enjoyed immediately after assembly.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
