Sandwiches

How to make Panino Caprese

Tomato, mozzarella, basil and olive oil in crisp Italian bread, optionally pressed warm.

What it is

Panino Caprese in the kitchen

Panino Caprese is tomato, mozzarella, basil and olive oil in crisp Italian bread, optionally pressed warm.

Why make it

Make Panino Caprese when you want a recognisable sandwich with a strong sense of place and a clear balance of bread, filling, moisture, acidity and texture.

Best with

lunch, casual dinner, street-food night, weekend cooking and global sandwich tasting menus

Method

Step-by-step

  1. Step 1

    Drain the mozzarella and blot the tomato lightly so the bread will not become wet.

  2. Step 2

    Split the ciabatta and drizzle the cut sides with olive oil.

  3. Step 3

    Layer tomato, mozzarella and basil, seasoning each tomato layer.

  4. Step 4

    Close and serve fresh, or press briefly until the bread is crisp and the mozzarella just softens.

  5. Step 5

    Finish with balsamic only if desired.

    Look for: ripe tomato and milky mozzarella balanced by basil and crisp bread Tip: Bring the tomato and mozzarella close to room temperature for fuller flavour. Avoid: using fridge-cold, watery mozzarella straight from its liquid
Storage

Make ahead and storage

Storage

Store prepared fillings separately in the refrigerator and assemble as close to serving as possible.

Make ahead

Prepare sauces, pickles and cooked fillings ahead where practical; refresh, reheat or toast just before assembly.