Healthy & Cheesy Broccoli Panini | Herby Spicy Vinaigrette with Jalapeños & Garlic Mayo

 🥪 Herby Spicy Vinaigrette Broccoli Panini with Jalapeños, Cheese & Garlic Herb Mayo Dressing

Introduction

If you think broccoli can’t be exciting, this panini will change your mind! 💚

This Herby Spicy Vinaigrette Broccoli Panini combines crisp-tender broccoli tossed in a zesty homemade vinaigrette, fiery jalapeños, gooey cheese, and a creamy garlic herb mayo dressing — all pressed between golden, buttery bread.

It’s the perfect fusion of healthy and indulgent — crunchy, spicy, tangy, and utterly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome lunch or a cozy café-style snack, this panini checks every box.

🧺 Ingredients

For the Vinaigrette Broccoli Filling

1½ cups broccoli florets, blanched

1–2 jalapeños, thinly sliced

1 tablespoon olive oil

½ teaspoon garlic, finely minced

½ teaspoon chili flakes

½ teaspoon mixed Italian herbs (oregano, thyme, basil)

Salt & black pepper to taste

For the Herby-Spicy Vinaigrette

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar

½ teaspoon honey or maple syrup

¼ teaspoon chili flakes

¼ teaspoon dried herbs

A pinch of salt and pepper

For the Garlic Herb Mayo Dressing

3 tablespoons mayonnaise

1 teaspoon garlic, finely minced or paste

¼ teaspoon dried parsley or basil

¼ teaspoon mixed herbs

¼ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon lemon juice

(Mix all the ingredients until creamy and smooth. Chill for 5–10 minutes before use.)

For the Panini

2 ciabatta, focaccia, or multigrain rolls

½ cup grated mozzarella or cheddar cheese

Butter or olive oil, for grilling

👩‍🍳 How to Make Herby Spicy Broccoli Panini

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

Bring a pot of water to boil and add broccoli florets.

Blanch for 2–3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.

Drain and rinse under cold water immediately to stop cooking.

Pat dry with a clean towel.

Step 2: Roast the Broccoli

Heat olive oil in a pan.

Add garlic and sauté until golden and fragrant.

Add blanched broccoli and jalapeños.

Sprinkle chili flakes, herbs, salt, and pepper.

Roast for 3–4 minutes on medium-high heat until slightly charred.

Turn off the flame.

Step 3: Make the Herby-Spicy Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice (or vinegar), honey, chili flakes, herbs, salt, and pepper.

Pour this vinaigrette over the warm roasted broccoli mixture.

Toss gently until all pieces are evenly coated.

Tip: The vinaigrette adds tang and a beautiful herby aroma that balances the creaminess of the mayo later.

Step 4: Assemble the Panini

Slice your ciabatta or focaccia horizontally.

Spread a generous layer of garlic herb mayo dressing on both inner sides.

Add the vinaigrette broccoli and jalapeño filling evenly over one side.

Top with grated cheese.

Close the sandwich and gently press down.

Step 5: Grill the Panini

Preheat your panini press or grill pan.

Brush the outer sides of the sandwich with butter or olive oil.

Grill on medium heat until the bread turns golden brown and the cheese melts — about 2–3 minutes per side.

Slice diagonally and serve immediately while hot and crisp.

🍴 Serving Suggestions

Serve with extra garlic herb mayo or a side of herbed fries.

Enjoy it with iced tea, cold coffee, or a light soup for a balanced meal.

This panini tastes amazing when slightly warm — perfect for lunchboxes or weekend brunch.

🌱 Tips & Variations

For more crunch: Add thinly sliced bell peppers or onions.

Make it vegan: Use vegan mayo and dairy-free cheese.

Spice it up: Add a dash of chipotle or peri-peri powder to the mayo.

Prep ahead: The vinaigrette broccoli mixture can be made a day earlier and refrigerated.

✨ Why You’ll Love This Panini

A perfect mix of fresh, herby, tangy, and spicy flavors.

Combines wholesome broccoli with creamy garlic mayo and melty cheese.

Ideal for both quick lunches and café-style dinners.

Super easy to make yet looks like something straight off a gourmet menu!