Print

Pesto Caprese Sandwich Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 82 reviews

This Pesto Caprese Sandwich is a vibrant and fresh Italian-inspired sandwich featuring homemade basil pesto, ripe tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and baby spinach layered on your choice of artisan bread. Drizzled with olive oil and balsamic reduction, this sandwich combines bright, herbaceous flavors with delicious textures, perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Basil Pesto

  • 7–8 cups packed basil leaves
  • 8–10 cloves garlic, peeled
  • 1/3 cup walnuts, toasted
  • 1/2 cup vegetarian parmesan, grated
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil (use divided)
  • Couple twists black pepper
  • Salt to taste

Sandwich Filling & Assembly

  • 2 pairs Panini or ciabatta bread, sourdough, or bread of choice
  • 2 ripe but firm tomatoes, thinly sliced
  • 4 slices fresh mozzarella (or more if desired)
  • Fistful baby spinach or greens of choice
  • 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic reduction
  • Pinch of salt
  • Couple twists black pepper
  • Pinch of garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herb blend

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Basil Pesto: Pulse the peeled garlic cloves in a food processor until finely chopped.
  2. Add Walnuts: Add the toasted walnuts to the garlic and pulse again until coarsely blended.
  3. Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the packed basil leaves, grated vegetarian parmesan, salt, and black pepper to the processor.
  4. Blend with Olive Oil: Pulse while gradually pouring in the extra virgin olive oil through the chute to help the mixture blend smoothly into pesto. Reserve some olive oil to drizzle on top of the pesto for extra richness.
  5. Set Aside Pesto: Transfer the pesto to a bowl and use as needed for the sandwich.
  6. Prepare the Sandwich Filling: Thinly slice the ripe tomatoes and fresh mozzarella. Place baby spinach, tomato slices, and mozzarella on a plate.
  7. Season the Filling: Drizzle the spinach, tomatoes, and mozzarella with olive oil and balsamic reduction. Sprinkle a pinch of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried Italian herb blend evenly over the ingredients.
  8. Warm the Bread: Slightly warm up the bread slices if desired to enhance the sandwich experience.
  9. Assemble the Sandwich: Spread a generous layer of pesto onto each slice of bread. Layer the tomatoes, spinach, and mozzarella on one slice.
  10. Complete and Press: Place the other bread slice on top of the filling and gently press the sandwich to compact the layers.
  11. Cut and Serve: Using a sharp knife, cut the sandwich into four equal pieces. If desired, secure each piece with a toothpick or cocktail pick for easy serving.

Notes

  • Toast walnuts before adding to the pesto to enhance their flavor.
  • Use fresh, ripe but firm tomatoes to prevent sogginess in the sandwich.
  • The balsamic reduction adds a sweet tangy contrast which can be omitted if unavailable.
  • Optional warming of bread helps improve texture but can be served cold as well.
  • Vegetarian parmesan is used here; ensure it’s suitable for your dietary preferences.
  • This sandwich can be customized with different greens or bread types to your liking.

Keywords: Pesto Caprese Sandwich, basil pesto, fresh mozzarella sandwich, Italian sandwich, vegetarian sandwich, easy lunch recipe

Find it online: https://ricoloranz.com/pesto-caprese-sandwich-recipe/