A vibrant panini layering mozzarella, tomato, basil pesto, and golden crust for a fresh gourmet meal.
# What You'll Need:
→ Bread & Dairy
01 - 4 slices country-style or sourdough bread
02 - 4 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
03 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
→ Vegetables & Condiments
04 - 1 large ripe tomato, sliced
05 - 2 tbsp basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
06 - Handful fresh basil leaves
→ Seasoning
07 - Pinch sea salt
08 - Freshly ground black pepper
# Directions:
01 - Spread basil pesto evenly on one side of each bread slice.
02 - Layer half the mozzarella slices onto two of the bread slices, pesto side up.
03 - Top mozzarella with tomato slices, fresh basil leaves, and sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
04 - Add remaining mozzarella slices over tomatoes. Place remaining bread slices pesto side down to form sandwiches.
05 - Spread softened butter on the outer sides of each sandwich.
06 - Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat.
07 - Place sandwiches in panini press or skillet. Cook 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing down with a spatula if using skillet, until bread is golden and cheese is melted.
08 - Remove from heat, let rest for 1 minute, then slice and serve warm.
