Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsUnion League CafeVegetable Panini Recipe

Vegetable Panini Recipe

Inspired by Union League Cafe
Time45m
Serves2

grilled eggplant, roasted red pepper, tomato confit, basil pesto, and goat cheese, served on country bread with a green salad

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Ingredients

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Vegetable Panini

Green Salad

Method

Vegetable Panini

  1. 1

    Prepare the Eggplant

    Slice the eggplant into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for about 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry with a paper towel.

  2. 2

    Roast the Eggplant

    Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the eggplant slices and grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until tender and golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside.

  3. 3

    Prepare the Tomatoes

    While the eggplant is resting, chop the tomatoes and cook them in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until they break down into a confit-like consistency, about 10-15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

  4. 4

    Assemble the Panini

    Spread basil pesto on one side of each slice of country bread. On two slices, layer the grilled eggplant, roasted red peppers, tomato confit, and crumbled goat cheese. Top with the other two slices of bread, pesto side down.

  5. 5

    Grill the Panini

    Heat a panini press or grill pan over medium heat. Brush the outside of the assembled sandwiches with remaining olive oil. Grill for 4-5 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy.

Green Salad

  1. 6

    Prepare the Salad

    In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced cucumber.

  2. 7

    Dress the Salad

    In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.

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