Easy Grilled Vegetable Panini Recipe

Quick Lunch

Easy Grilled Vegetable Panini Recipe

344 Reviews

★★★★★ 4.5/5

Hi there! AMBER here, bringing you a warm and delicious Grilled Vegetable Panini recipe. This panini is all about vibrant, roasted vegetables, melty cheese, and crispy bread grilled to perfection. It’s a perfect option for a quick lunch or a light dinner, giving you a restaurant-quality meal at home in no time!

Nutrition Facts

420 calories; fat 18g; sodium 650mg; carbohydrates 45g; protein 15g

Descriptions

This Grilled Vegetable Panini features a delicious combination of roasted vegetables and melted cheese, sandwiched between crispy bread. It’s a warm, hearty meal that’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a vegetarian option without compromising on flavor.

Directions

Step 1

Grill the Vegetables:

Brush the zucchini, bell pepper, and eggplant slices with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
Heat a grill or pan over medium-high heat and cook the vegetables for 2-3 minutes per side, until tender and slightly charred. Set aside.

Step 2

Assemble the Panini:

Spread pesto (if using) on one side of each bread slice.
Layer the grilled vegetables on two slices of bread.
Add mozzarella or provolone slices on top of the vegetables.
Top with the remaining bread slices to form sandwiches.

Step 3

Grill the Panini:

Heat a panini press or a skillet over medium heat.
Grill the panini for 3-4 minutes until the bread is golden and crispy, and the cheese has melted.
If using a skillet, press the sandwich with a spatula or another heavy pan for even cooking.

Step 4

Serve: Slice the panini in half and serve with chips, a side salad, or fresh fruit

Pro Tips for Perfect Grilled Vegetable Panini

Pre-Grill the Veggies: Grilling the vegetables ahead of time will ensure they’re tender and flavorful, making for an even better sandwich.
Use a Panini Press: A panini press will give you that perfectly crispy exterior while keeping the inside nice and melty.
Customize the Fillings: Feel free to switch up the veggies based on what you have available—roasted red peppers, spinach, or tomatoes are great additions.
Grill the Bread: For extra crispiness, lightly grill the bread before assembling the sandwich.
Don’t Overfill: If you add too many vegetables, the sandwich may fall apart while grilling, so be careful not to overload it.

FAQs

Can I make this sandwich ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the grilled vegetables ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Assemble the sandwich when you’re ready to grill.
Can I use a different type of bread? Absolutely! You can use any bread you like, such as sourdough, whole wheat, or even gluten-free bread if you prefer.
Can I make this sandwich without a panini press? Yes! You can use a grill pan or a regular frying pan. Just press down on the sandwich with a spatula to get a nice crisp.
What other cheese can I use? Feel free to substitute mozzarella with provolone, cheddar, or even goat cheese for a unique twist on this panini.

Creative Variations

Mediterranean Veggie Panini: Add olives, feta cheese, and a drizzle of tzatziki sauce for a Mediterranean-inspired twist.
Spicy Veggie Panini: Add some sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give the panini a spicy kick.
Vegan Veggie Panini: Use vegan mozzarella, pesto made with nutritional yeast, and your favorite plant-based bread.
Add Protein: Add grilled chicken, turkey, or even a fried egg for extra protein and richness.

Advice for Gifting

Prepare the grilled vegetables and sandwich fillings in separate containers, and gift the sandwich fixings with the recipe so the recipient can assemble and grill it fresh.

Fun Ways to Serve

Cut into Smaller Pieces: Serve the panini as bite-sized pieces on a platter for a fun party appetizer.
With a Side Salad: Pair the panini with a side salad of mixed greens or a simple cucumber and tomato salad for a complete meal.
Add Soup: Serve alongside a cup of tomato soup or vegetable soup for a comforting combo.

Nutritional Facts (Approximate)

Calories: 350-400 per sandwich
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 6g

Conclusion

This Easy Grilled Vegetable Panini is a perfect balance of crispy, creamy, and flavorful, making it a must-try for lunch or dinner. Whether you enjoy it on its own or pair it with a soup or salad, this veggie-packed panini is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Stay Connected

For more tasty and easy recipes, don’t forget to subscribe to my blog or follow me on social media. Share your grilled vegetable panini creations—I’d love to see how you customize it!

Ingredients

1 zucchini, sliced lengthwise
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 small eggplant, sliced
1/4 cup pesto sauce (optional)
4 slices of ciabatta or sourdough bread
4 slices of mozzarella or provolone cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Quick Lunch