Description
This pesto caprese sandwich is made with soft Italian bread, ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil pesto, fresh basil, olive oil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It is fresh, creamy, full of summer flavor, and ready in just 10 minutes.
Ingredients
4 slices (or portions) Italian bread (about 400g / 14 oz total) - we used our homemade focaccia, but ciabatta or panini will be delicious too
3/4 cup (180 ml) homemade basil pesto, or use your favorite store bought pesto
Small handful fresh basil leaves
1-2 ripe tomatoes, sliced
250g (8 oz) fresh mozzarella, sliced
Balsamic glaze, for serving (optional)
Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
Sea salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare your base
Arrange the bread on a serving board or plates. Lightly toast if you prefer a bit of crunch.
2. Spread the pesto
Spoon a generous layer of pesto over each piece of bread.
Chef’s Tip: Use the back of the spoon to gently press the pesto into the bread so it soaks in slightly — this adds so much flavor.
3. Layer the fillings
Top with a few fresh basil leaves, followed by sliced tomato and mozzarella.
4. Season and Serve
Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze (if using). Season lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Finish with a few extra basil leaves and serve immediately.
Notes
Storage Instructions
Fridge: Best enjoyed fresh, but it can be wrapped tightly and refrigerated for up to 1 day.
Make Ahead: Prepare the ingredients in advance and assemble on the day of serving.
Picnic Tip: Wrap tightly in parchment paper or foil and keep chilled until serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 623
- Sugar: 6.5 g
- Sodium: 1435 mg
- Fat: 35.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 44.9 g
- Protein: 32.6 g
- Cholesterol: 11.3 mg