Gooey Caprese Panini with Herbed Mayo Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 5 minutes | Servings: 1 | Author: Olivelle

Why You'll Love It

Crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor - this Gooey Caprese Panini is everything you want in a quick but indulgent meal. Layered with juicy heirloom tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and peppery arugula on focaccia bread, each bite bursts with bold Italian flavor. The creamy herbed mayo, blending garlic, basil, Bruschetta herbs, and balsamic, takes this sandwich way beyond ordinary. Grilled to golden perfection, it's a fast favorite you'll crave again and again.

For One Sandwich:

• 1 Heirloom or Roma tomato
• Butcher's Spice Blend, freshly ground to taste
• 2 slices Focaccia Bread
• 1tsp PizzaOlio Infused Olive Oil, plus more for cooking
• 1 tsp Barrel Aged Dark Thick Sweet Balsamic
• 1-2 Tbps Herbed Mayo, see below
• 2-4 Mozzarella Slices
• arugula

Herbed Mayo:

• 1 cup mayo
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 cup loosely packed basil leaves
• 1 Tbsp Barrel Aged Dark Thick Sweet Balsamic
• Butcher's Spice Blend, to taste
• 1 Tbsp Bruschetta Dried Herb Blend

Directions:

1. Make the Herbed May: Blend all the ingredients for the herbed mayo in a bowl, using an immersion blender until smooth. Alternatively, a food processor or blender can be used for this step. Set aside.

2. Prep the Tomato: Slice the tomato into ¼” thickness and season the slices with a few fresh grinds of Butcher’s Spice Blend.

3. Season the Bread: Drizzle each slice of the focaccia bread with 1 teaspoon of PizzaOlio Infused Olive Oil and 1 teaspoon of Barrel Aged Dark Thick Sweet Balsamic. Season with a few fresh cracks of Butcher’s Spice Blend.

4. Assemble the Sandwich: Generously spread the set aside herbed mayo on each slice of the focaccia bread, about 1-2 Tbsp total. Layer the sandwich with mozzarella slices, seasoned tomatoes, and arugula. Adjust the quantity of mozzarella and tomatoes based on the size of your bread slices to ensure a single layer.

5. Grill the Panini: Preheat a panini press to 375°F. Brush the plates lightly with about 1/2 tsp PizzaOlio Infused Olive Oil. Cook the sandwich until golden brown, typically around 4 to 5 minutes.

6. Serve Hot: Slice, savor, and enjoy the melty goodness!

Pro Tips

• Swap focaccia for ciabatta if you like an extra crunch.
• Double the herbed mayo recipe - it's incredible on burgers, wraps, and as a dip for fries.
• Pair with a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with lime for the ultimate cafe-style lunch.