Caprese Sandwich Recipe
Make Caprese Sandwich Recipe in just 20m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Sandwich
For toasting (optional)
Method
Sandwich
Prepare bread
Slice the ciabatta loaf horizontally to create top and bottom pieces. If the loaf is large, portion into 2 equal sandwich-sized halves. If you prefer a softer sandwich, remove a small amount of inner crumb to create room for fillings.
Prepare mozzarella
Pat the fresh mozzarella dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Slice into 1/4-inch (about 0.6 cm) rounds. If using a ball, divide evenly among sandwiches.
Prepare tomato
Slice the ripe tomato into 1/4-inch rounds. If the tomato is very juicy, gently blot the slices with paper towel to prevent a soggy sandwich.
Season tomato and mozzarella
On a plate or cutting board, arrange alternating slices of tomato and mozzarella in the order you plan to stack them. Drizzle about half of the olive oil evenly over the tomato and mozzarella. Sprinkle the sea salt and half the black pepper evenly over the slices to season them.
Assemble sandwich
If using mayonnaise or pesto, spread it thinly on the cut surfaces of the bread (1 tsp per side). On the bottom half of the bread, layer: a light handful of arugula (if using), then the seasoned tomato and mozzarella slices stacked slightly overlapping, and tuck fresh basil leaves between or on top of the cheese. Drizzle the remaining olive oil and the balsamic glaze evenly over the stacked ingredients. Sprinkle the remaining black pepper if desired.
Finish and press
Place the top half of bread over the fillings. Press down gently to compact the sandwich so the ingredients bind together. If you prefer a warm, slightly crisp sandwich, proceed to the toasting step; otherwise slice and serve immediately.
Slice and serve
Using a sharp serrated knife, cut the sandwich into two servings (or more if using a large loaf). Serve immediately so mozzarella remains soft and tomatoes fresh.
Toasting (optional)
Pan-toast (stovetop)
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Spread the butter or brush olive oil on the outside cut sides of the assembled sandwich. Place sandwich in the skillet, weigh down gently with a heavy pan or spatula, and toast 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese is slightly softened. Remove, let rest 1 minute, then slice and serve.
Press or grill
Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high. Brush outside of sandwich with butter or oil. Grill/press for 3–6 minutes until bread is crisp and cheese is warmed. Remove, rest 1 minute, slice, and serve.