Ingredients
Scale
For the Sandwich:
- 1 ciabatta roll (or baguette, sliced in half)
- 4 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 1 medium ripe tomato, sliced
- 4–5 fresh basil leaves
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for toasting the bread)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Optional Additions:
- 1 tsp pesto (for extra flavor)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
- ½ tsp garlic powder (for added depth)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
- Slice the ciabatta roll in half and brush the inside lightly with olive oil.
- Heat a pan over medium heat and toast the bread, cut side down, until golden brown and slightly crispy (about 2–3 minutes).
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwich
- Layer fresh mozzarella slices on the bottom half of the toasted ciabatta.
- Add tomato slices on top of the mozzarella.
- Sprinkle with salt and black pepper for extra flavor.
- Layer fresh basil leaves over the tomatoes.
Step 3: Add the Finishing Touches
- Drizzle balsamic glaze evenly over the basil and tomatoes.
- (Optional) Spread pesto on the top half of the bread for an extra burst of flavor.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Close the sandwich, press down gently, and slice in half.
- Serve immediately with a side of soup, salad, or chips for a complete meal.
Notes
- For an extra crispy texture: Toast the sandwich in a panini press for 2 minutes after assembling.
- For meal prep: Prepare ingredients ahead, but assemble fresh for the best taste.
- Balsamic glaze tip: If you don’t have store-bought, reduce balsamic vinegar with a teaspoon of honey until thickened.
- Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free ciabatta or sandwich roll.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Light Meal
- Method: Toasting, Assembling
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: ~420 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 35mg