The Caprese Sandwich with Fresh Mozzarella brings together creamy cheese, ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and vibrant pesto in a rustic Italian roll. It’s a simple yet refined sandwich ideal for warm-weather meals or elegant casual dining.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with fresh Mediterranean flavors
- Requires no cooking and minimal preparation
- Perfect for vegetarian diets and light lunches
- Customizable with your favorite spreads and extras
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- Ripe tomatoes, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- Italian sandwich roll or ciabatta
- Basil pesto
- Olive oil
- Salt and black pepper
directions
- Slice the bread horizontally and lightly drizzle the inside with olive oil.
- Spread a generous amount of pesto on one or both sides of the bread.
- Layer the sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil leaves.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Close the sandwich and press gently. Serve immediately, or wrap for later.
Servings and timing
- Serves: 2
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 0 minutes
- Total time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Add avocado slices or arugula for extra freshness
- Use burrata cheese for a creamier texture
- Swap the pesto for sun-dried tomato spread or balsamic glaze
- Toast the bread for a panini-style variation
storage/reheating
- Store: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be refrigerated for up to 1 day wrapped tightly
- Reheat: Toast in a sandwich press or skillet until the bread is warm and lightly crisp
- Avoid freezing, as the tomatoes and mozzarella will release too much moisture
FAQs
What kind of bread is best for this sandwich?
A crusty roll like ciabatta or a rustic baguette works well to hold the ingredients without getting soggy.
Can I use pre-sliced mozzarella?
Yes, but for the best texture and flavor, opt for fresh mozzarella from a ball or log.
Is this sandwich vegan?
Not as is, but you can use vegan mozzarella and pesto to make it plant-based.
What’s the best way to keep it from getting soggy?
Pat the tomatoes dry before assembling and apply the pesto in a thin layer.
Can I add protein to this sandwich?
Yes, grilled chicken or prosciutto are delicious additions that blend well with Caprese ingredients.
Should I toast the sandwich?
That’s optional. Toasting adds texture and helps melt the cheese if desired.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, but assemble it just before serving to preserve freshness and avoid sogginess.
What pairs well with this sandwich?
Serve with a green salad, potato chips, or a cup of tomato soup.
Can I substitute the pesto?
Yes, try a light layer of olive tapenade, balsamic glaze, or even hummus for a twist.
What is the origin of the Caprese combination?
It’s inspired by the traditional Caprese salad from Italy’s Capri region, known for using mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil.
Conclusion
This Caprese Sandwich with Fresh Mozzarella is a celebration of simplicity and fresh ingredients. Whether you enjoy it at home or pack it for a picnic, it’s an ideal meal for those who appreciate authentic Mediterranean flavor with minimal effort. Let me know when you’re ready for the next one!
PrintCaprese Sandwich with Fresh Mozzarella
The Caprese Sandwich with Fresh Mozzarella brings together creamy cheese, ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and vibrant pesto in a rustic Italian roll. It’s a simple yet refined sandwich ideal for warm-weather meals or elegant casual dining.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Assembling
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- Ripe tomatoes, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- Italian sandwich roll or ciabatta
- Basil pesto
- Olive oil
- Salt and black pepper
Instructions
- Slice the bread horizontally and lightly drizzle the inside with olive oil.
- Spread a generous amount of pesto on one or both sides of the bread.
- Layer the sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil leaves.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Close the sandwich and press gently. Serve immediately, or wrap for later.
Notes
- Add avocado slices or arugula for extra freshness.
- Use burrata cheese for a creamier texture.
- Swap the pesto for sun-dried tomato spread or balsamic glaze.
- Toast the bread for a panini-style variation.
- Storage: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be refrigerated for up to 1 day wrapped tightly.
- Reheat: Toast in a sandwich press or skillet until the bread is warm and lightly crisp.
- Avoid freezing, as the tomatoes and mozzarella will release too much moisture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 30mg