Italian Inspired Prosciutto Basil Panini
The Italian Inspired Prosciutto Basil Panini is a celebration of the vibrant flavors of Italy, encapsulated in a warm, pressed sandwich. It features the delicate saltiness of thinly sliced prosciutto, paired with the fresh, aromatic lift of basil leaves. This panini is further enhanced by the creamy texture and subtle tang of mozzarella cheese, which melts beautifully as the sandwich grills to golden perfection. The choice of bread is crucial, often a ciabatta or a baguette, to provide the necessary crispness and sturdiness to contain the rich fillings. This panini is a testament to the simplicity of Italian cooking, where high-quality ingredients are allowed to shine, creating a meal that is both satisfying and evocative of the Mediterranean lifestyle. It's an ideal option for a quick yet sophisticated lunch or a delightful dinner that brings a touch of Italy to your table.
Equipment
- 1 small bowl
- 1 grill
Ingredients
- olive oil 1/2 cup
- balsamic vinegar 3 tbsp.
- garlic 1 clove, minced
- prosciutto 8 oz., thinly sliced
- mozzarella cheese 10 oz., thinly sliced
- tomato 12 slices
- basil 12 large leaves
- ciabatta bread 16oz., halved horizontally
Instructions
- Whisk garlic, vinegar and olive oil in small bowl to blend; use salt and pepper to season dressing to taste.
- Layer basil, tomato, mozzarella and prosciutto over bottom of bread.
- Drizzle the dressing lightly on the sandwich and season once more with salt and pepper. Top with the remaining slice of bread then slice into 4 quarters.
- Preheat your barbecue to medium heat. Set the sandwiches to grill for about 5 minutes on each side or until beautifully golden brown with melted cheese. Press occasionally with a large spatula to compact.
- Enjoy!