Grilled Vegetable Panini (Printable)
Smoky grilled vegetables and basil pesto layered inside warm ciabatta bread for a satisfying meal.
# What You'll Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 1 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch strips
02 - 1 small eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
03 - 1 red bell pepper, seeded and cut into 4 flat pieces
04 - 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and cut into 4 flat pieces
05 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
06 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Bread and Cheese
07 - 4 ciabatta rolls or slices of rustic Italian bread
08 - 4 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
09 - 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
→ Pesto
10 - 1/3 cup prepared basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
# How-to Steps:
01 - Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat.
02 - Brush zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper.
03 - Grill vegetables for 2 to 3 minutes per side until tender and lightly charred, then transfer to a plate.
04 - Slice ciabatta rolls in half horizontally and spread 1 tablespoon of pesto on the cut side of each bottom half.
05 - Layer grilled vegetables evenly over pesto, then top with mozzarella slices and sprinkle with Parmesan if using.
06 - Place top halves of the rolls on the sandwiches.
07 - Heat a large skillet or panini press over medium heat. If using skillet, place sandwiches in pan, press with a heavy skillet or spatula and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until bread is golden and cheese has melted. If using panini press, grill according to manufacturer's instructions.
08 - Slice panini in half and serve warm.
# Expert Pointers:
01 -
- It feels like sharing a secret whisper about how to make vegetables truly sing in a sandwich
- This panini became a favorite because it’s both hearty and refreshing, perfect for any time of day
02 -
- Brush your veggies lightly with oil to prevent sticking but avoid drenching for the best char
- I learned that layering pesto under the veggies keeps everything from getting soggy and boosts flavor
03 -
- Use a heavy pan or weighted press to get those beautiful grill marks and melt cheese perfectly
- The secret that makes all the difference is spreading pesto under the veggies, not on top