Prosciutto and Mozzarella Panini
A classic Italian-American delight, this panini features crispy, golden-brown ciabatta bread embracing layers of salty prosciutto, creamy melted mozzarella, zesty basil pesto, and a fresh bite of peppery arugula. It's a quick, elegant, and deeply satisfying meal perfect for lunch or a light dinner, ready in just 20 minutes.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Preheat and Prepare
- b.Preheat your panini press to medium-high heat. If you don't have one, preheat a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- c.Lay out the 8 slices of ciabatta on a clean cutting board or work surface.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Assemble the Panini
- b.Spread 1 tablespoon of basil pesto evenly onto one side of 4 of the bread slices. These will be the bottom halves.
- c.Layer the fresh mozzarella slices over the pesto, dividing the cheese equally among the 4 sandwiches.
- d.Arrange 2 slices of prosciutto on top of the mozzarella for each sandwich.
- e.Top the prosciutto with a small handful of arugula (about 1/2 cup each).
- f.Lightly season the arugula with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- g.Place the remaining 4 slices of bread on top to complete the sandwiches.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Grill to Perfection
- b.Using a pastry brush, lightly coat the outer top and bottom surfaces of each sandwich with extra virgin olive oil. This creates a perfectly crisp, golden crust.
- c.Carefully place the assembled panini onto the hot press. Close the lid and grill for 5-7 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown with distinct grill marks and the mozzarella is fully melted.
- d.If using a skillet, place the sandwiches in the pan. Press them down firmly with a heavy pot lid or another heavy skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and the cheese is gooey.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Rest and Serve
- b.Transfer the hot panini to a cutting board and let them rest for 1-2 minutes. This allows the cheese to set slightly, preventing it from oozing out when cut.
- c.Slice each panini in half diagonally with a sharp serrated knife.
- d.Serve immediately while warm and crispy.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best melt, use fresh mozzarella at room temperature rather than straight from the fridge.
- 2Don't overstuff the panini. It can cause the fillings to spill out and make the bread soggy.
- 3A sturdy, rustic bread like ciabatta or focaccia is ideal as it holds up well to the heat and pressure of grilling.
- 4Brushing oil directly onto the bread ensures an even, non-greasy crust.
- 5If using a skillet, a foil-wrapped brick makes an excellent weight to press the sandwich.
- 6Letting the panini rest before slicing is a crucial step for a cleaner cut and less mess.
Adapt it for your goals.
Cheese Swap
Replace mozzarella with provolone, fontina, or taleggio for a different flavor profile and melt.
Add a Sweet NoteAdd a Sweet Note
Spread a thin layer of fig jam on the bread before adding the other ingredients for a delicious sweet and savory contrast.
Vegetable BoostVegetable Boost
Add thinly sliced tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrients.
Gourmet DrizzleGourmet Drizzle
Finish the panini with a drizzle of balsamic glaze after grilling for a tangy, acidic kick.
Herbaceous TwistHerbaceous Twist
Use a different pesto, such as sun-dried tomato pesto or arugula pesto, instead of traditional basil.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Protein
The combination of mozzarella cheese and prosciutto provides a good source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Source of Calcium
Fresh mozzarella is a great source of calcium, a vital mineral for maintaining strong bones and teeth, as well as supporting nerve and muscle function.
Contains Healthy Fats
The extra virgin olive oil and pine nuts in the pesto contribute monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health and can help reduce bad cholesterol levels.
Frequently asked questions
One panini contains approximately 600-650 calories, depending on the specific brands of bread, cheese, and prosciutto used. It's a satisfying and calorie-dense meal.