Ingredients
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Step-by-step preparation
1Slice and season the vegetablesSlice the eggplant, zucchini and red pepper into even pieces and brush them lightly with olive oil. Season the vegetables with salt and black pepper so they are flavorful before grilling.
Step 1
Slice the eggplant, zucchini and red pepper into even pieces and brush them lightly with olive oil.
Step 2
Season the vegetables with salt and black pepper so they are flavorful before grilling.
2Grill the fillingCook the vegetables on a grill pan or panini press until tender and lightly charred. Remove them from the heat once they are soft enough to layer but still hold their shape.
Step 1
Cook the vegetables on a grill pan or panini press until tender and lightly charred.
Step 2
Remove them from the heat once they are soft enough to layer but still hold their shape.
3Assemble the paniniSpread basil pesto over the bread and layer the grilled vegetables evenly on top. Close the sandwich with the second slice of bread and press it gently so the filling stays in place.
Step 1
Spread basil pesto over the bread and layer the grilled vegetables evenly on top.
Step 2
Close the sandwich with the second slice of bread and press it gently so the filling stays in place.
4Press and serveToast the panini until the bread is crisp, golden and heated through. Cut the sandwich in half and serve immediately while the filling is warm.
Step 1
Toast the panini until the bread is crisp, golden and heated through.
Step 2
Cut the sandwich in half and serve immediately while the filling is warm.
Kitchen tip
Grill the vegetables until they are tender but not wet so the sandwich stays crisp after pressing. If you do not have a panini press, use a grill pan and weigh the sandwich down with a heavy skillet.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes. Store-bought basil pesto works well and saves time, especially for a quick lunch or easy weeknight sandwich.
What bread is best for panini?
Use sturdy bread such as ciabatta, sourdough, focaccia or panini rolls that can hold the filling and crisp well.
Can I make this panini without a panini press?
Yes. Cook it in a grill pan or skillet and press it with another heavy pan until the bread is golden.
Can I add cheese to grilled vegetable pesto panini?
Absolutely. Mozzarella, provolone, feta or goat cheese all pair well with the grilled vegetables and pesto.
How do I store leftover grilled vegetables?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, then assemble fresh sandwiches when needed.
Nutrition Facts(per serving)
Calories
Fat
Carbs
Protein
The rings show the share of the reference daily intake per serving, based on a 2,000 kcal diet.
