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Balsamic Glazed Caprese Panini

A crispy panini filled with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and arugula.Finished with a sweet and tangy homemade balsamic glaze.Perfect for an easy vegetarian lunch or dinner.

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Course Sandwich
Cuisine Italian-inspired

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