Bruschetta Panini Recipe

This delicious bruschetta panini recipe is a delightful fusion of Italian flavors and the classic turkey sandwich. The crispy sourdough bread pairs perfectly with the juicy tomatoes and fresh basil for a taste that's simply irresistible. All these, layered with Mozzarella cheese and turkey slices, make for a hearty and satisfying dish that's perfect for any time of the day.

Photos of Bruschetta Panini Recipe

Most of these ingredients are commonly found in any kitchen. However, you may need to take note of two ingredients: sourdough bread and mayo with olive oil. Sourdough bread has a tangy flavor that complements the rest of the panini ingredients well. If it's not readily available, you can substitute with any sturdy bread. Secondly, the mayo with olive oil adds a rich and creamy taste to the panini. Regular mayo can be used, but the olive oil variant gives a distinct, enhanced flavor.

Ingredients for the Bruschetta Panini

Sourdough bread: A type of bread made by fermentation of dough using naturally occurring lactobacilli and yeast. It has a slightly sour taste.

Turkey: Turkey slices add a lean protein to the panini, providing a satisfying and healthy element.

Mozzarella cheese: This is a traditionally southern Italian cheese made from Italian buffalo's milk. It's soft, moist and milky.

Basil leaves: Fresh basil leaves add a sweet and slightly minty flavor that complements the other ingredients.

Tomato: Fresh tomatoes give a juicy and tangy flavor to the panini.

Mayo with olive oil: Mayonnaise with olive oil is a variant of the classic mayo, with a richer and more complex flavor profile.

One reader, Gretal Mcgarry says:

This bruschetta panini recipe is a game-changer! The combination of turkey, mozzarella, and fresh basil with a hint of mayo is simply divine. The flavors meld together perfectly, and the crunch of the sourdough bread takes it to the next level. It's a must-try for any panini enthusiast!

Gretal Mcgarry

Techniques Required for Making Bruschetta Panini

How to assemble the panini: Layer the turkey, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil leaves, and tomato slices evenly on the sourdough bread slices spread with mayo.

How to grill in a panini press: Preheat the panini press, then place the assembled panini inside and grill for about 3 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

How to cook on a skillet: If using a skillet, heat it over medium heat, then carefully place the assembled panini on the skillet and cook for about 4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.

How to serve: Serve the bruschetta panini warm and enjoy!

How To Make Bruschetta Panini

You only need 10 minutes to whip up a filling serving of this bruschetta panini! It’s loaded with turkey, tomatoes, and basil for a delectable lunch meal.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 3 minutes

Total: 8 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4slicessourdough bread
6slicesturkey
2slicesmozzarella cheese
fresh basil leaves
1tomato
2tbspmayo with olive oil

Instructions

Spread the Mayo on the back sides of bread and place the back sides together.
Add the turkey, cheese, basil and tomatoes.
Grill in the panini press for about 3 minutes. Alternatively, carefully place on a skillet and cook for 4 minutes on each side or until cheese is melted.
Serve warm, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 1319.88kcal
Fat: 40.86g
Saturated Fat: 11.26g
Trans Fat: 0.16g
Monounsaturated Fat: 17.25g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.59g
Carbohydrates: 147.64g
Fiber: 6.86g
Sugar: 14.92g
Protein: 88.49g
Cholesterol: 197.99mg
Sodium: 2146.65mg
Calcium: 340.86mg
Potassium: 1031.45mg
Iron: 13.25mg
Vitamin A: 123.70µg
Vitamin C: 8.52mg

Essential Technique Tip for Bruschetta Panini Recipe

When grilling your bruschetta panini on a skillet, it's important to apply some pressure to the top of the sandwich to mimic the effect of a panini press. You can do this by placing another heavy skillet or a heat-safe weight on top of the sandwich while it cooks. This will ensure your sandwich gets that characteristic panini crunch and the mozzarella cheese melts evenly.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Bruschetta Panini Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare ingredients in advance, such as slicing the tomatoes and cheese, to streamline the assembly process.

Use a griddle: Utilize a griddle to cook multiple paninis simultaneously, saving time and ensuring all sandwiches are ready at the same time.

Batch cooking: Consider making multiple paninis at once to save time, especially if serving a larger group.

Pre-sliced ingredients: Opt for pre-sliced turkey and cheese to eliminate the need for additional prep time.

Multi-task: While the paninis are cooking, use that time to tidy up the kitchen or prepare a side dish to serve alongside the sandwiches.

Substitute Ingredients For Bruschetta Panini Recipe

sourdough bread - Substitute with ciabatta bread: Ciabatta bread has a similar texture and flavor to sourdough, making it a great alternative for a bruschetta panini recipe.
turkey - Substitute with smoked chicken: Smoked chicken provides a similar smoky flavor and texture to turkey, making it a suitable replacement for this recipe.
mozzarella cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone cheese has a mild, creamy flavor and melts well, making it a good substitute for mozzarella in a bruschetta panini.
fresh basil leaves - Substitute with baby spinach: Baby spinach can provide a similar green, earthy flavor and texture to basil, adding a fresh element to the panini.
tomato - Substitute with roasted red peppers: Roasted red peppers offer a sweet and smoky flavor, adding a different dimension to the panini while still providing a juicy element.
mayo with olive oil - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can provide a creamy texture and tangy flavor similar to mayo, while also adding a healthier twist to the recipe.

Best Way to Present Bruschetta Panini

Elevate the ingredients: Utilize the freshest sourdough bread, succulent turkey, creamy mozzarella cheese, vibrant fresh basil leaves, and ripe tomatoes to ensure the highest quality flavors and textures.
Artful arrangement: Carefully layer the turkey, cheese, basil, and tomatoes on the sourdough bread, ensuring each ingredient is thoughtfully placed to create a visually appealing and balanced composition.
Garnish with finesse: Add a delicate sprig of fresh basil or a sprinkle of finely chopped herbs on the plate to add a touch of elegance and a pop of color to the dish.
Precision grilling: Ensure the panini is grilled to perfection, achieving a golden-brown crust and melted cheese, showcasing your attention to detail and culinary expertise.
Impeccable plating: Place the panini on a pristine plate, ensuring that every element is positioned with precision and care, reflecting the high standards of a Michelin-starred presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Bruschetta Panini

Spatula: A flat, flexible utensil used for flipping, spreading, and lifting foods such as pancakes, burgers, and cookies.
Panini press: A countertop appliance with ridged plates that can be used to grill and press sandwiches, creating crispy, toasted exteriors.
Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan with sloping sides, typically used for frying, searing, and sautéing foods.
Knife: A sharp-edged tool used for slicing, chopping, and dicing ingredients. Different types of knives are designed for specific tasks.
Cutting board: A durable surface for cutting and preparing ingredients, protecting countertops and ensuring safety for the knife and the user.
Measuring spoons: Utensils used to measure small amounts of ingredients accurately, typically available in various sizes such as teaspoon and tablespoon.
Grill: A cooking surface with heat sources below, used for grilling and charring foods, adding smoky flavors and attractive grill marks.
Food processor: A versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, and pureeing ingredients, streamlining food preparation processes.
Mixing bowl: A deep bowl used for combining and mixing ingredients, available in various materials such as stainless steel, glass, and ceramic.
Cheese grater: A tool designed to grate cheese into fine or coarse shreds, enhancing the texture and flavor of dishes.
Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and broiling foods, providing consistent and controlled heat for cooking.

How To Store and Freeze Bruschetta Panini

To store leftover bruschetta panini, wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped sandwiches in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
For best results, reheat the refrigerated panini in a panini press or skillet over medium heat until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted again. Alternatively, you can reheat the panini in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
To freeze the bruschetta panini, wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Place the wrapped sandwiches in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label the container with the date and contents.
Frozen panini can be stored for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, remove the desired number of sandwiches from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
To reheat frozen panini, unwrap the sandwiches and place them in a preheated panini press or skillet over medium heat. Grill or cook until the bread is crispy and the filling is heated through, about 5-7 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat the thawed panini in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes.
If you plan to freeze the panini, consider using slightly less tomato or patting the tomato slices dry with a paper towel before assembling the sandwiches. This will help prevent the bread from becoming soggy when thawed and reheated.

How To Reheat Leftover Bruschetta Panini

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the leftover bruschetta panini in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet. Heat the panini in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until it's heated through and the cheese is melted. This method helps to retain the crispiness of the bread while ensuring the filling is hot and flavorful.
If you have a panini press, you can reheat the leftover panini directly on the press. Preheat the press and place the panini on the grill for 2-3 minutes, or until it's heated through and the exterior is crispy. This method is quick and easy, and it helps to restore the original texture of the panini.
For a stovetop option, heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Place the leftover panini on the hot surface and press down firmly with a spatula. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the bread is crispy and the filling is heated through. This method is ideal if you want to add a bit of extra crunch to the exterior of the panini.
If you're in a hurry, you can use a microwave to reheat the leftover panini. Place the panini on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 30-60 seconds, or until it's heated through. To help prevent the bread from becoming soggy, place a damp paper towel over the panini before microwaving. Keep in mind that this method may result in a softer texture compared to the other reheating options.

Random Fact About Bruschetta Panini

Bruschetta panini is a versatile dish that can be customized with various ingredients such as different types of cheese, meats, and vegetables. It is a delicious and convenient option for a quick and satisfying meal.

Is Making Bruschetta Panini at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this bruschetta panini recipe largely depends on the quality of ingredients used. While turkey and mozzarella cheese can be pricier, the use of sourdough bread and tomatoes balances the cost. The addition of fresh basil and mayo with olive oil enhances the flavor, making it a worthwhile investment. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-20. Overall, I rate this recipe a solid 8 for its taste, simplicity, and versatility.

Is This Panini Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The bruschetta panini recipe, while delicious, may not be the healthiest option due to a few factors:

The sourdough bread, although fermented, is still a refined carbohydrate that can spike blood sugar levels
Turkey is a lean protein, but processed meats often contain added sodium and preservatives
Mozzarella cheese is high in saturated fat and sodium
Mayo, even with olive oil, is high in calories and fat

However, the inclusion of fresh basil and tomato does add some nutritional value to the sandwich.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Opt for whole grain or sprouted bread instead of sourdough to increase fiber content and reduce the glycemic impact
Use fresh, unprocessed turkey breast or replace it with grilled chicken for a leaner protein option
Swap mozzarella for a lower-fat cheese like fresh mozzarella or goat cheese, or use a smaller amount of cheese overall
Replace mayo with mashed avocado for a healthier fat source and added fiber
Add more vegetables to the sandwich, such as spinach, roasted red peppers, or sliced cucumbers, to increase nutrient density and fiber content
Use a panini press or grill with minimal added oil to reduce overall fat content

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a tasty and more nutritious version of the bruschetta panini.

Editor's Thoughts on This Bruschetta Panini Recipe

This bruschetta panini recipe is a delightful twist on a classic panini. The combination of turkey, mozzarella, fresh basil, and tomatoes creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The use of sourdough bread adds a rustic and tangy element, while the mayo with olive oil provides a rich and creamy base. Grilling the panini enhances the overall experience, resulting in a warm, gooey, and satisfying sandwich. It's a simple yet elegant dish that is sure to impress your taste buds.

Enhance Your Bruschetta Panini Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a savory garlic parmesan coating.

Honey Balsamic Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tangy glazed carrots, caramelized to perfection with a honey balsamic drizzle.

Grilled Pineapple Slices: Juicy pineapple slices grilled to bring out their natural sweetness and smoky flavor.

Delicious Alternatives to Bruschetta Panini

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate the vegetables in a flavorful herb and garlic mixture before grilling them to perfection on skewers.

Mango Chicken Salad: Combine juicy mango chunks with grilled chicken, mixed greens, and a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing and satisfying salad.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Simmer ripe tomatoes with aromatic basil and creamy coconut milk to create a comforting and velvety soup that's perfect for any time of the year.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Bruschetta Panini

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your taste buds with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a rich and flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Indulge in the creamy and indulgent spinach and artichoke dip, perfect for scooping up with crunchy tortilla chips or warm bread.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This elegant dessert is the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Apple Pie: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a classic apple pie, with tender, flaky crust and a sweet, cinnamon-spiced filling. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert experience.

Why trust this Bruschetta Panini Recipe:

This recipe is a delicious twist on the classic bruschetta, combining the flavors of turkey, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil with the satisfying crunch of sourdough bread. The use of sourdough bread adds a rustic and artisanal touch, while the addition of tomatoes brings a burst of freshness. The inclusion of mayo with olive oil adds a creamy and savory element, enhancing the overall taste and texture. With these high-quality ingredients, this bruschetta panini is a flavorful and trustworthy choice for any meal.

Share your thoughts on the delicious Bruschetta Panini Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make it even better!

FAQ:

What type of bread can I use for the bruschetta panini?

You can use any type of bread you prefer, but sourdough bread works best for its tangy flavor and sturdy texture.

Can I substitute the turkey with another type of meat?

Absolutely! You can use any deli meat of your choice, such as ham, roast beef, or even vegetarian options like grilled eggplant or portobello mushrooms.

Can I make this recipe without a panini press?

Yes, if you don't have a panini press, you can use a skillet or griddle. Simply place the assembled sandwich on the skillet, then press down with a heavy object like a cast-iron pan while cooking to achieve the same pressed effect.

Can I prepare the ingredients ahead of time for this recipe?

Yes, you can pre-slice the tomatoes, cheese, and turkey, and wash and dry the basil leaves in advance to make assembly quicker when you're ready to make the panini.

How can I customize the flavor of the mayo for this recipe?

You can add additional seasonings to the mayo, such as minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, or a dash of hot sauce to personalize the flavor to your liking.