Summer Eggplant Panini Recipe

This Summer Eggplant Panini offers a delightful twist to your traditional sandwiches. Packed with the smoky flavor of grilled eggplant, melted mozzarella, fresh tomatoes, and aromatic pesto, it's the perfect recipe to enjoy on a bright summer day.

Photos of Summer Eggplant Panini Recipe

The star ingredient, eggplant, is readily available at most supermarkets. However, for the pesto, you might want to check the aisle with Italian food products. It's also easy to make at home with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan, and olive oil. Mozzarella cheese can be found in the dairy section.

Ingredients for Summer Eggplant Panini

Eggplant: Adds a smoky, hearty flavor to the sandwich. It's grilled to perfection for this recipe.

Kosher salt: Used to draw out the moisture from the eggplant, enhancing its flavor.

Olive oil spray: Used to grill the eggplant and toast the bread.

French bread: The perfect vessel for the sandwich. Its crispy exterior and soft interior balance the textures.

Mozzarella cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and adds a creamy, rich taste.

Skinny pesto: Adds a burst of fresh, herby flavor.

Tomato: Fresh tomato slices add a juicy, fresh element to the sandwich.

One reader, Ammamaria Zapata says:

This summer eggplant panini recipe is a game-changer! The grilled eggplant, fresh tomatoes, and gooey mozzarella create a burst of flavors in every bite. The skinny pesto adds a delightful zing. It's a perfect blend of summer goodness in a sandwich. I can't wait to make it again!

Ammamaria Zapata

Key Techniques for Making a Summer Eggplant Panini

How to grill the eggplant: The eggplant slices should be grilled for about 7-8 minutes, turning once halfway through, until they are tender and have grill marks.

How to assemble the panini: After grilling the eggplant, the panini should be assembled by placing 3 slices of grilled eggplant, 1 slice of mozzarella, 1/2 tablespoon of pesto, and 2 slices of tomatoes on each sandwich. Then, the sandwich should be closed and lightly sprayed with oil on the top of the bread.

How to use a panini press: The assembled panini should be placed on a preheated panini press and closed until the cheese melts and the bread is toasted. This usually takes a few minutes.

How to serve the panini: Once the panini is ready, it should be cut in half diagonally and served immediately to enjoy it while it's warm and crispy.

How To Make Summer Eggplant Panini

Eggplants, tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese and pesto make up this savoury summer lunch crusty snack. Get the full panini recipe here!

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1largeeggplant,about 12-14 oz
Kosher salt,to taste
olive oil spray,I used my misto
12ozfrench bread,or baguette, cut into 4 pieces
4slicesmozzarella cheese,3 oz total, part skim, Sargento
2tbspskinny pesto
8tomato,thin sliced

Instructions

Slice the eggplant into 1/4-inch thick slices.
Place the eggplant slices on a paper towel and season with salt; set aside about 30 minutes. This will help draw some of the moisture out of the eggplant.
Pat the eggplant dry with paper towels.
Preheat panini grill.
Lightly spritz eggplant with olive oil, season with salt and pepper.
When the grill is hot, grill eggplant about 7-8 minutes, turning once half way through. Set aside.
Slice the bread open and place 3 slices of grilled eggplant, 1 slice of mozzarella, 1/2 tablespoon of pesto, and 2 slices of tomatoes on each sandwich.
Close and lightly spray the top of the bread with oil.
Place on a panini press and close until the cheese melts and the bread is toasted.
Cut in half diagonally and eat immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 476.47kcal
Fat: 17.01g
Saturated Fat: 5.96g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.68g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.76g
Carbohydrates: 65.13g
Fiber: 10.10g
Sugar: 16.73g
Protein: 19.52g
Cholesterol: 25.86mg
Sodium: 1264.13mg
Calcium: 261.47mg
Potassium: 1096.05mg
Iron: 4.68mg
Vitamin A: 160.78µg
Vitamin C: 37.47mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Summer Eggplant Panini

When grilling the eggplant, make sure to turn it only once. This allows the eggplant to develop a nice char and enhances its smoky flavor. Also, remember to pat the eggplant dry after salting it. This step is crucial as it removes excess moisture, ensuring your panini doesn't become soggy.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop and season the eggplant the night before and store it in the refrigerator. This will save time on the day of making the panini.

Multi-task: While the eggplant is draining, prepare the other ingredients or work on another dish to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.

Batch cooking: Grill extra eggplant slices and store them in the fridge for a quick addition to salads, pasta, or sandwiches throughout the week.

Organized workspace: Keep all the ingredients and tools within reach to streamline the assembly process and minimize time spent searching for items.

Quick cleanup: Clean as you go to avoid a big mess at the end, making the overall cooking process more efficient.

Substitute Ingredients For Summer Eggplant Panini Recipe

eggplant - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini has a similar texture and mild flavor, making it a great substitute for eggplant in a panini recipe.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt, providing a similar level of saltiness and flavor enhancement.
olive oil spray - Substitute with avocado oil spray: Avocado oil spray can be used as a healthier alternative to olive oil spray, providing a similar light coating for grilling or roasting.
french bread - Substitute with ciabatta bread: Ciabatta bread has a similar texture and crustiness, making it a suitable substitute for French bread in a panini recipe.
mozzarella cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone cheese has a mild and slightly tangy flavor, making it a good substitute for mozzarella in a panini recipe.
skinny pesto - Substitute with basil pesto: Basil pesto can be used as a substitute for skinny pesto, providing a rich and flavorful spread for the panini.
tomato - Substitute with roasted red pepper: Roasted red peppers can add a sweet and smoky flavor similar to tomatoes, making them a great substitute in a panini recipe.

Presentation Ideas for a Summer Eggplant Panini

Elevate the eggplant slices: Arrange the grilled eggplant slices in a delicate, overlapping pattern on the plate to create a visually appealing base for the panini.
Artfully arrange the panini: Place the panini on the plate with a slight angle, allowing the vibrant colors of the tomatoes and pesto to be showcased.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle a few sprigs of fresh basil or microgreens around the plate to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness to the presentation.
Drizzle with balsamic reduction: Create a decorative drizzle of balsamic reduction on the plate, adding a touch of elegance and depth of flavor to the dish.
Add a side of mixed greens: Serve the panini alongside a small, artfully arranged side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to complement the flavors of the dish.
Use a wooden serving board: For a rustic and elegant presentation, serve the panini on a wooden serving board, adding a touch of warmth and charm to the dish.

Essential Tools for Making an Eggplant Panini

Knife: A sharp knife is essential for slicing the eggplant and cutting the bread.
Panini grill: This is used to grill the eggplant and toast the sandwich.
Paper towels: These are used to pat the eggplant dry after salting.
Olive oil spray: This is used to lightly spritz the eggplant and bread before grilling.
Cutting board: This is used for slicing the eggplant and cutting the bread.
Spatula: A spatula is needed for flipping the eggplant slices on the grill.
Kitchen paper towels: These are used to pat the eggplant dry after grilling.
Sharp chef's knife: A sharp chef's knife is essential for slicing the eggplant and cutting the bread.
Panini press: This is used to press and toast the sandwich.

Storing and Freezing Instructions for Eggplant Panini

To store leftover eggplant panini, wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped sandwiches in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
When you're ready to enjoy your leftover panini, unwrap the sandwich and reheat it in a panini press or on a grill pan over medium heat until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
If you want to freeze your eggplant panini for later, wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Place the wrapped sandwiches in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, and store them in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen panini, remove the sandwich from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, unwrap the sandwich and reheat it in a panini press or on a grill pan over medium heat until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
For best results, consume your frozen and reheated eggplant panini within a month of freezing to ensure optimal taste and texture.

How to Reheat Leftover Eggplant Panini

Preheat your panini press or a large skillet over medium heat. If using a skillet, place a heavy object (like a cast-iron skillet) on top of the sandwich to press it down.
Reassemble the leftover panini, ensuring that the mozzarella cheese is evenly distributed and in contact with both sides of the bread.
Lightly spray the outside of the bread with olive oil to help crisp up the exterior.
Place the panini on the preheated press or skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted. If using a skillet, flip the sandwich halfway through cooking.
If you prefer a softer interior, wrap the panini in foil before reheating. This will help prevent the bread from becoming too crispy while still allowing the cheese to melt and the eggplant to warm through.
For a quick and convenient option, you can also reheat the panini in the microwave. Wrap the sandwich in a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through. Note that this method will result in a softer texture overall.
If you have access to an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the reassembled panini in the air fryer basket and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to let the panini cool for a minute or two before cutting and serving, as the cheese and vegetables can be quite hot.

Interesting Fact About Eggplant Paninis

Eggplant panini is a popular Italian sandwich that is typically served warm and grilled. It is a versatile dish that can be customized with various ingredients such as cheese, pesto, and tomatoes. This sandwich is a great way to enjoy the flavors of summer and is a delicious and satisfying meal option.

Is Making Eggplant Panini at Home Cost-Effective?

This summer eggplant panini recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Eggplants are affordable and nutritious, making this dish budget-friendly. The addition of mozzarella cheese and tomatoes may slightly increase the cost, but the overall expense is reasonable. The estimated cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $15. As a culinary chef, I rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and delicious flavors.

Is This Eggplant Panini Recipe Healthy?

The summer eggplant panini recipe is a relatively healthy choice, as it incorporates several nutritious ingredients:

Eggplant is low in calories and rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals
Tomatoes provide vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, an antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of certain cancers
Pesto, when made with fresh basil, olive oil, and nuts, offers healthy fats and antioxidants

However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make the recipe even healthier:

The mozzarella cheese adds saturated fat and calories to the dish
French bread, depending on its composition, may be made with refined flour, which has fewer nutrients and fiber compared to whole grain bread
The recipe does not include any leafy greens or other vegetables that could provide additional vitamins, minerals, and fiber

To make this recipe even more nutritious, consider the following suggestions:

Swap the mozzarella cheese with a lower-fat alternative, such as part-skim mozzarella or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor
Choose a whole grain bread or a bread made with a mix of whole grains and seeds to increase the fiber content and provide more nutrients
Add a handful of fresh spinach or arugula leaves to the panini for an extra boost of vitamins and minerals
Experiment with other grilled vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to increase the variety of nutrients in the dish
Use a homemade pesto made with fresh basil, olive oil, garlic, and a smaller amount of parmesan cheese or nuts to control the ingredients and reduce the overall fat content

Editor's Opinion on This Eggplant Panini Recipe

This summer eggplant panini recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The grilled eggplant adds a smoky depth, complemented by the creamy mozzarella, zesty pesto, and juicy tomatoes. The use of a panini press creates a perfect crunch on the outside while ensuring a gooey, melted interior. It's a simple yet elegant dish that captures the essence of summer in every bite.

Enhance Your Summer Eggplant Panini Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Corn on the Cob: Try grilling some fresh corn on the cob with a sprinkle of chili lime seasoning for a zesty side dish.

Mango Avocado Salad: Whip up a refreshing salad with diced mango, avocado, red onion, and a squeeze of lime juice for a tropical twist.

Roasted Vegetable Medley: Create a colorful medley of roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion, seasoned with herbs and balsamic glaze for a flavorful side dish.

Similar Recipes to Try Besides Eggplant Panini

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate your favorite vegetables and grill them on skewers for a delicious and healthy meal.

Mango Salsa Chicken: Top grilled chicken with a refreshing mango salsa for a burst of tropical flavor.

Butternut Squash Soup: Roast butternut squash and blend it into a creamy, comforting soup for a cozy night in.

Berry Crisp: Combine fresh berries with a crispy oat topping for a delightful summer dessert that everyone will love.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Summer Eggplant Panini

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing large mushroom caps with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, herbs, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a delicious start to any meal.

Crispy Zucchini Fritters: Whip up a batch of crispy zucchini fritters by combining shredded zucchini with herbs, spices, and a binding agent like flour or breadcrumbs. Pan-fry until golden brown and serve with a side of creamy dipping sauce for a delightful appetizer option.

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 perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of a classic strawberry cheesecake, with a buttery graham cracker crust and a luscious cream cheese filling. Top it off with fresh strawberries for a burst of freshness in every bite.

Why trust this Summer Eggplant Panini Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delicious eggplant panini that will elevate your summer dining experience. The carefully selected mozzarella cheese, skinny pesto, and ripe tomatoes ensure a burst of flavors in every bite. The grilled eggplant adds a smoky depth, while the french bread provides the perfect crunch. Trust the expertise behind this recipe to create a memorable panini that embodies the essence of summer.

Share your thoughts on this delicious Summer Eggplant Panini Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of cheese for this recipe. Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheese, such as provolone, cheddar, or even a creamy goat cheese.

Can I make this recipe without a panini grill?

Absolutely! If you don't have a panini grill, you can use a regular grill pan or a skillet to make this delicious panini. Simply press the sandwich down with a spatula while grilling to achieve that classic panini texture.

How can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?

To make this recipe vegan-friendly, you can substitute the mozzarella cheese with a vegan cheese alternative, and use a dairy-free pesto. You can also add some grilled vegetables or marinated tofu to enhance the flavors.

Can I prepare the eggplant in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the eggplant in advance. After grilling the eggplant slices, allow them to cool and then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you're ready to make the panini, simply reheat the eggplant slices in a pan or microwave before assembling the sandwich.

What can I serve with this panini?

This panini pairs well with a variety of sides such as a fresh green salad, a bowl of soup, or some crispy sweet potato fries. You can also serve it with some pickles or a side of marinara sauce for dipping.