The Vegetarian Recipe

Slice and toast

Slice the ciabatta loaf horizontally to create a top and bottom. If you prefer a warm sandwich, lightly butter the cut sides (optional) and toast cut-side down in a skillet over medium heat for 1–2 minutes until golden; otherwise leave untoasted.

Make pesto dressing

In a small bowl combine basil pesto (2 tbs), lemon juice (1 tsp), olive oil (2 tsp), minced garlic (1/2 tsp) and Dijon mustard (1/2 tsp). Whisk until smooth. Season with 1/8–1/4 tsp salt and 1/8–1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Spread about 1–1.5 tablespoons of the pesto dressing evenly on the bottom half of the bread, and reserve the rest to toss with vegetables or drizzle on top later.

Slice produce

Thinly slice the tomato and cucumber. Pit and thinly slice the avocado. Thinly slice the red onion into rings. Tear or slice the fresh mozzarella into 1/4-inch slices or bite-sized pieces.

Season avocado and tomato

Lightly toss the avocado and tomato slices with the reserved pesto dressing (about 1 tablespoon) and the remaining pinch of salt and pepper to evenly coat and prevent avocado browning.

Layering order: On the pesto-coated bottom half, place a bed of baby spinach (about 1 cup), then arrange mozzarella slices evenly on top so they contact the warm bread (if toasted) to soften slightly.

Add the seasoned tomato and avocado slices on top of the mozzarella, then scatter roasted red peppers (3 oz), cucumber slices (1/2 cup), and red onion slices (1/4 cup). Tuck fresh basil leaves among the layers for bright flavor.

Taste a small piece of the assembled filling and adjust seasoning: sprinkle remaining 1/8 tsp salt, 1/8 tsp pepper or red pepper flakes (1/8 tsp) if you like heat.

Drizzle balsamic glaze (about 1 teaspoon) lightly over the vegetables for a sweet-acid finish. If you have reserved any pesto dressing, drizzle a little more now.

Place the top half of the bread on the sandwich, press gently, and if you prefer, cut the sandwich in half. Serve immediately so the avocado stays fresh and the mozzarella is slightly soft. Accompany with chips, a small salad, or pickles as desired.