Grilled Eggplant and Pesto Panini

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Grilled Eggplant and Pesto Panini

Savor the robust flavors of Italy with this Grilled Eggplant and Pesto Panini, a delightful sandwich that marries the smoky essence of grilled eggplant with the vibrant, aromatic notes of homemade pesto. Nestled between two crusty slices of ciabatta, the melty mozzarella and juicy tomatoes create a symphony of textures and tastes that will transport you straight to the streets of Florence. Perfect for a quick lunch or a comforting dinner, this panini is not just a meal; it's an experience. Panini, meaning 'small breads' in Italian, have a rich history as a beloved street food, evolving over centuries into the scrumptious creations we enjoy today.

Servings: 2

Ingredients

  • Eggplant (1 medium, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds)
  • Olive oil (3 tablespoons, divided)
  • Salt (1/2 teaspoon)
  • Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon)
  • Ciabatta bread (2 large rolls, sliced in half)
  • Mozzarella cheese (8 oz, sliced)
  • Tomato (1 large, sliced)
  • Fresh basil leaves (1/4 cup, packed)
  • Pesto (1/4 cup, homemade or store-bought)

Instructions

  1. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat.
  2. Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Grill the eggplant slices for 2-3 minutes per side, until they are tender and lightly charred. Set aside to cool slightly.
  4. Spread a generous layer of pesto on one side of each slice of ciabatta bread.
  5. Layer the grilled eggplant slices on top of the pesto, followed by the mozzarella cheese, tomato slices, and a few fresh basil leaves.
  6. Top with the other slice of ciabatta bread, pesto side down.
  7. Heat a panini press or a skillet over medium heat. If using a skillet, you may want to place a heavy pan on top of the sandwich to help compress it.
  8. Carefully place the assembled panini in the panini press or skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
  9. Remove from heat, slice in half, and serve hot. Enjoy this delectable creation!

Dietary Information

Servings: 2 • Dish Type: Sandwich • Prep Time: 15 minutes • Cook Time: 10 minutes • Calories: 450 • Fat: 24g • Carbs: 40g • Protein: 16g • Sodium: 600mg • Sugar: 3g