Grilled Vegetable Panini

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s so much to love about this Grilled Vegetable Panini. It’s an explosion of flavor with fresh, charred veggies and a smooth, herby pesto that enhances every bite. The mozzarella melts beautifully, creating a creamy and rich contrast to the crunchy, toasted whole grain bread. It’s a wholesome and satisfying meal that’s perfect for anyone craving a meatless yet filling option. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this panini is easy to make and delicious every time.

Ingredients

• 1 medium zucchini, sliced

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

• 1 small eggplant, sliced

• 1 cup fresh spinach

• 4 slices whole grain bread

• 4 tablespoons pesto (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Toss the zucchini, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and eggplant slices in a bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

2. Grill the Vegetables: Place the coated vegetables on the grill. Grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and have nice grill marks. Remove from the grill and set aside.

3. Assemble the Panini: Spread 1 tablespoon of pesto on one side of each slice of bread. Layer the grilled vegetables, fresh spinach, and mozzarella cheese on two slices of bread (pesto side up). Top with the remaining slices of bread (pesto side down).

4. Grill the Panini: Heat a panini press or a skillet over medium heat. If using a skillet, add a little olive oil to the pan to prevent sticking. Place the assembled sandwiches in the pan or press. Grill until golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.

5. Serve: Once the panini are nicely toasted and cheesy, remove them from the grill. Cut them in half diagonally. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2 paninis (1 sandwich per person)

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: For a non-vegetarian option, you can add grilled chicken or turkey slices to your panini.

• Different Cheese: Try substituting mozzarella with goat cheese or feta for a tangy twist.

• Vegan Version: Use dairy-free mozzarella and opt for a plant-based pesto to make this recipe vegan.

• Spicy Kick: Add a few slices of jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha sauce for a spicy version of this panini.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover grilled vegetable panini can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the panini in a skillet over medium heat and grill for 2-3 minutes on each side until crispy and warm, or use a panini press.

FAQs

1. Can I use any type of bread for the panini?

Yes, you can use any bread you prefer. Ciabatta or baguette also works great, but whole grain bread adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber.

2. Can I grill the vegetables ahead of time?

Absolutely! Grilled vegetables can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, making it easy to prepare ahead of time.

3. Can I use a regular skillet instead of a panini press?

Yes, you can use a skillet. Just make sure to flip the panini carefully and press down with a spatula to get that crispy texture.

4. Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, the recipe is not gluten-free due to the whole grain bread. However, you can use gluten-free bread to make it suitable for a gluten-free diet.

5. Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, store-bought pesto works perfectly fine. Just make sure it’s a high-quality pesto for the best flavor.

6. How do I know when the vegetables are done grilling?

The vegetables should be tender and have visible grill marks on both sides. Grill them for about 5-7 minutes per side.

7. Can I add other vegetables to the panini?

Yes, feel free to add other veggies like mushrooms, onions, or tomatoes. Roasted red peppers also make a great addition.

8. How can I make the panini spicier?

Add a few slices of fresh jalapeños or drizzle some hot sauce or sriracha sauce inside the panini before grilling.

9. Can I freeze the grilled vegetable panini?

It’s not recommended to freeze the entire panini, as the bread may become soggy upon reheating. However, you can freeze the grilled vegetables and assemble the panini later.

10. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, simply swap the mozzarella cheese for a dairy-free alternative and use a vegan pesto to make it vegan-friendly.

Conclusion

This Grilled Vegetable Panini is a deliciously satisfying meal that brings together the perfect combination of fresh, flavorful veggies, creamy mozzarella, and vibrant pesto. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and makes for a perfect lunch or dinner. Whether you stick with the classic version or try out one of the many variations, this panini is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy the tastes of summer in every bite!

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