Classic Grilled Caprese Panini – Crispy, Cheesy, and Full of Italian Flavor

Bring the flavors of Italy straight to your kitchen with this Classic Grilled Caprese Panini — a perfect blend of fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and golden grilled bread. This easy-to-make Italian sandwich delivers everything you love about a traditional Caprese salad, but with the irresistible crunch of a toasted panini. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a café-style recipe to impress guests, this panini hits all the right notes — crispy, cheesy, and bursting with Mediterranean flavor.

Perfect for vegetarians and anyone who loves simple, wholesome meals, this grilled Caprese panini recipe is not just delicious but also visually stunning — making it ideal for your next Pinterest-worthy food post!

### Classic Grilled Caprese Panini

#### Ingredients:

**For the Panini:**

- 2 ciabatta or focaccia rolls

- 2 tablespoons basil pesto

- 4 slices of fresh mozzarella cheese

- 4 grilled tomato slices (see below for grilling instructions)

- 4 tablespoons Napoletana sauce (marinara sauce)

- Fresh basil leaves

- 1-2 jalapeños, thinly sliced (adjust to taste)

- Olive oil (for brushing)

**For the Grilled Tomatoes:**

- 2-3 ripe tomatoes, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds

- Olive oil

- Salt and pepper to taste

**For the Brown Dressing:**

- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

- 1 tablespoon honey

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- Salt and pepper to taste

#### Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Grilled Tomatoes:**

   - Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.

   - Brush tomato slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

   - Grill tomatoes for about 2-3 minutes per side, until grill marks appear and the tomatoes are tender. Set aside.

2. **Make the Brown Dressing:**

   - In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.

3. **Assemble the Panini:**

   - Slice the ciabatta or focaccia rolls in half horizontally.

   - Spread basil pesto evenly on the cut sides of the rolls.

   - On the bottom half of each roll, layer the following:

     - 2 slices of fresh mozzarella cheese

     - Grilled tomato slices

     - 2 tablespoons Napoletana sauce

     - Fresh basil leaves

     - Thinly sliced jalapeños (adjust amount based on desired spiciness)

   - Drizzle a bit of the brown dressing over the toppings.

4. **Grill the Panini:**

   - Close the sandwich with the top half of the roll.

   - Brush the outside of the ciabatta or focaccia with olive oil.

   - Preheat a panini press or grill pan over medium heat.

   - Grill the panini for about 3-5 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted. If using a grill pan, you may need to press down with a spatula or weight.

5. **Serve:**

   - Remove the panini from the heat and let it cool for a minute before slicing.

   - Slice in half and serve warm.

Enjoy your Classic Grilled Caprese Panini with a delightful blend of flavors and textures!