This Balsamic Glazed Caprese Panini is a warm, melty sandwich layered with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, basil, and peppery arugula, all finished with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze. It’s a simple yet elevated panini that feels restaurant-worthy but is easy enough for any day of the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold Italian-inspired flavors with minimal effort
- Crispy bread with a gooey, cheesy center
- Family-friendly and perfect for lunch or dinner
- Customizable with your favorite greens or bread
- A great way to use fresh basil and tomatoes
Ingredients
Caprese Paninis
- Sourdough bread
- Fresh mozzarella, sliced
- Roma tomatoes, sliced
- Arugula
- Fresh basil leaves
- Homemade basil pesto
- Butter
Balsamic Glaze
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar
Instructions
- Make the balsamic glaze: Add balsamic vinegar and honey to a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat until reduced by half, stirring occasionally. Lower the heat if needed to avoid boiling. Set aside to cool.
- Prepare the basil pesto according to your recipe instructions.
- Butter one side of each slice of bread. Flip and spread a generous layer of pesto on the other side.
- On the pesto side, layer arugula, basil leaves, sliced tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella. Season lightly with salt and pepper and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
- Top with the second slice of bread, pesto side facing inward.
- Grill on a panini press or grill pan until golden and crisp, and the cheese is melted. Serve the Balsamic Glazed Caprese Panini immediately.
Tips & Tricks
- Use low-moisture mozzarella if your tomatoes are very juicy
- Let the balsamic glaze cool fully to thicken properly
- A cast-iron pan works well if you don’t have a panini press
- Swap arugula for spinach for a milder flavor
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 paninis
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary Notes: Vegetarian, halal-friendly
Notes
- Add sliced avocado for extra creaminess
- Serve with a simple salad or tomato soup
- Whole wheat or multigrain bread works beautifully
Nutrition (Approximate)
- Calories: 520 per panini
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fat: 28g
FAQ
Can I make this without a panini press?
Yes, use a grill pan or skillet and press gently with a spatula.
Is balsamic glaze the same as balsamic vinegar?
No, balsamic glaze is reduced and slightly sweetened for thickness.
Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, it keeps well refrigerated for up to two weeks.
What bread works best?
Sourdough is ideal, but ciabatta or focaccia also work well.
Can I make it vegan?
Use plant-based mozzarella and pesto without cheese.
Storage
- Best enjoyed fresh
- Store leftover glaze in the fridge for up to 14 days
- Reheat paninis in a skillet for best texture
Similar Recipes
Balsamic Glazed Caprese Panini
Ingredients
- Caprese Paninis
- Sourdough bread
- Fresh mozzarella sliced
- Roma tomatoes sliced
- Arugula
- Fresh basil leaves
- Homemade basil pesto
- Butter
- Balsamic Glaze
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar
Instructions
- Make the balsamic glaze: Add balsamic vinegar and honey to a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat until reduced by half, stirring occasionally. Lower the heat if needed to avoid boiling. Set aside to cool.
- Prepare the basil pesto according to your recipe instructions.
- Butter one side of each slice of bread. Flip and spread a generous layer of pesto on the other side.
- On the pesto side, layer arugula, basil leaves, sliced tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella. Season lightly with salt and pepper and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
- Top with the second slice of bread, pesto side facing inward.
- Grill on a panini press or grill pan until golden and crisp, and the cheese is melted. Serve the Balsamic Glazed Caprese Panini immediately.
Notes
- Add sliced avocado for extra creaminess
- Serve with a simple salad or tomato soup
- Whole wheat or multigrain bread works beautifully
Conclusion
This Balsamic Glazed Caprese Panini delivers big flavor with simple ingredients and minimal prep. Whether for a cozy lunch or casual dinner, it’s a reliable recipe that always feels special and satisfying.