Caprese sandwich is a simple and delicious Italian sandwich made with fresh mozzarella cheese, tomatoes and basil. The sandwich is super easy to make and requires just a few ingredients.
What is Caprese?
Caprese (pronounced kuh-prey-zee) is basically an Italian salad that is made from tomatoes, basil and fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and seasoned with salt and olive oil. The salad can be eaten as is, or put between bread slices to make caprese sandwich.
It gets its name from the Mediterranean island of Capri which lies in the south of Italy. Mediterranean cuisine is known for its use of fresh local produce and simple preparation and this salad is no exception, layering simple fresh ingredients into a healthy flavorful dish.
Best bread to use for caprese sandwiches
This sandwich is best made with a thick and sturdy bread, as the normal sandwich breads like white bread are not able to hold all the toppings and tend to break apart. You can choose between many breads, here some of my favorites are –
- Sourdough bread
- Ciabatta
- Focaccia
- French Baguette
Filling for caprese sandwich
The sandwich is made with just a few simple ingredients, however their taste is really highlighted. Hence it is really important to choose the best quality fresh ingredients –
- Fresh mozzarella – Choose the fresh soft mozzarella cheese, which is usually sold as balls or logs in stores, and is generally packed in water. This is different from the harder mozzarella bricks used in pizzas.
- Tomatoes – Buy ripe but firm tomatoes. Generally smaller juicy tomatoes tend to work best for this recipe.
- Pesto – A layer of basil pesto on the bread adds some moisture to the sandwich as well as enhances its taste. You can opt for store bought pesto, or make it at home very easily.
- Basil – Basil leaves add freshness and sharpness to the flavor of the sandwich.
- Salt & Pepper – add as per your taste for flavoring
Other optional ingredients
In addition to the above, you can modify the sandwich as per your preferences. Here are a few other ingredients that go well in the sandwich –
- Arugula leaves – Sometimes arugula leaves are added for extra freshness, crunch and peppery flavor.
- Spinach – Fresh spinach leaves can be added for crunch and to enhance the nutrition.
- Balsamic glaze – You can drizzle some balsamic glaze or thick balsamic vinegar on the sandwich for extra flavor, moisture and a hint of sweetness.
- Sun dried tomatoes – can be added in addition to or instead of fresh tomatoes for a tart flavor.
- Avocados – Sliced avocados can be added to make the sandwich more filling and nutritious.
- Grilled vegetables – grilled zucchini, eggplant etc also go well with the sandwich.
Nutritional Info
This sandwich is relatively healthy option for a snack. The fresh mozzarella cheese is not too high in fat and calories compared to other cheeses and is good source of protein.
You can opt for a whole grain bread to make this sandwich. However, overall the sandwich makes for a simple well balanced meal providing fiber, protein, healthy fats and vitamins, and can be enjoyed in moderation.
Serving suggestions
These sandwiches can be eaten cold or warm. Personally I like to toast them a little bit till the cheese is starting to melt. If you have a grill or panini maker, you can cook the sandwiches in it.
These sandwiches are very quick and simple to make, making them an excellent choice for breakfast or a quick snack. They are a great option to take along when travelling or on road trips.
To make caprese sandwich at home follow the detailed step by step recipe with photos posted below.
See more related recipes like :
Caprese Sandwich Recipe
Recipe Info
Ingredients For Caprese Sandwich Recipe
- 4 Slices Sourdough bread cut in half
- 2 Tablespoon Basil Pesto
- 8 Ounces Fresh Mozzarella
- 2 Small Tomatoes
- 1/4 Cup Basil Leaves
- 1/2 Teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 Teaspoon Black Pepper Powder (Kali Mirch)
- 2 Teaspoons Olive Oil
Step By Step Instructions for Caprese Sandwich Recipe
- Spread some pesto on one slice of the bread.4 Slices Sourdough bread, 2 Tablespoon Basil Pesto
- Slice the fresh mozzarella cheese into thick slices (roughly 1/4th inch) and place them on the bread.8 Ounces Fresh Mozzarella
- Then place some tomato slices on top.2 Small Tomatoes
- Add some chopped basil leaves to the bread.1/4 Cup Basil Leaves
- Sprinkle salt, pepper as per your taste.1/2 Teaspoon Salt, 1/2 Teaspoon Black Pepper Powder (Kali Mirch)
- Cover with second slice. You can eat the sandwich as it is or heat it. I like the sandwich slightly toasted.
- Grease a pan with some oil and place the sandwich on it. Cover it with a lid and cook it 1-2 minutes on low heat to warm it up slightly. You can also grill the sandwich.2 Teaspoons Olive Oil
- Caprese sandwich is ready. Slice in half for easy handling and serve it fresh.
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